DOH Recommends Routine Use of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy in Lung Cancer

The Department of Health has announced new guidance for treating patients using stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). In SBRT radiation is given in fewer sessions and at higher doses than conventional radiotherapy, with a high precision that helps to spare healthy tissue. The DoH is recommending its routine use in medically inoperable Stage I lung cancer, whilst recognising it is a clinical option that may be suitable for other cancer types. It also encourages further development of the therapy through clinical trials in a number of cancer sites.

The recommendation was supported by senior radiologists and medical physicists, although some warned that its implementation may take time. A 2010 survey showed that only 5 of the UK's 62 radiotherapy centres were offering SBRT. Conventional linear accelerators can be used to deliver the treatment, but additional imaging equipment is necessary to ensure the patient is positioned accurately and this costs around £500,000 per machine. The introduction of SBRT at a centre also requires the development of new protocols and additional staff training.

National Radiotherapy Awareness Initiative Press Release
Institue of Physics and Engineering in Medicine Press Release
National Radiotherapy Implementation Group Report on SBRT