The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) guideline on use of palliative radiation therapy for bone metastases has recently been updated and, based on new evidence, continues to support the use of single- and multiple-fraction regimens for pain relief as opposed to more protracted treatment regimens. The report was published in the January-February issue of ASTRO’s Practical Radiation Oncology journal. The authors concluded that utilization of a single-fraction regimen is “particularly convenient and sensible for patients with limited life expectancy” and can reduce “the additional burdens of time, travel and cost for the patient.” There is however a higher risk for the need for retreatment and patients need to be informed of this in advance when treatment options discussed.
Link to Medscape article: (ASTRO) guideline on use of palliative radiation therapy for bone metastases (Open access with site registration) and Prac Radiat Oncol: palliative radiation therapy for bone metastases (2/2017)
