Simulation-free palliative radiotherapy using diagnostic CT scans- is less more? A systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Cancer incidence continues to rise globally, with nearly half of patients requiring radiotherapy. Simulation-free radiotherapy (SFRT) using diagnostic CT scans instead of dedicated planning CTs is a streamlined alternative that may reduce patient visits and shorten time to treatment without impacting quality of care. This systematic review evaluates the practical aspects, dosimetric accuracy, and clinical outcomes of SFRT in palliative radiotherapy.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, PubMed and Embase were searched for publications on SFRT using multiple search terms. Included studies reported clinical or logistical endpoints such as treatment timing, toxicity, dosimetric errors, and patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Eleven studies met inclusion criteria

SUBMITTER: Zwahlen DR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12512154 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature