Stereotactic radiotherapy for early lung cancer: Evidence-based approach and future directions.

ABSTRACT:

Aim

To review key studies evaluating stereotactic radiotherapy in the setting of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) for inoperable or high-risk patients, and discuss areas of ongoing research and clinical trials.

Background

The use of stereotactic radiotherapy for the treatment of early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has increased rapidly over the past decade. Numerous studies have reported outcomes for patients treated with SBRT who are unfit for surgical resection, or at high risk of surgical complications.

Materials and methods

A narrative review.

Results

The preponderance of evidence suggests that SBRT is associated with excellent local control (∼90% at 3 years) and a favorable toxicity profile. In patients with higher operative risks,

SUBMITTER: Chehade S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4661348 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Nov-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature