The Benefits of Single Fraction Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

Recent research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center led by Anurag Singh, MD, Director of Radiation Research, has shown that for patients with peripherally located lung cancer, one treatment of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is equally effective as longer courses radiation therapy.

March 30, 2021

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

At a Glance

Category	Detail
Condition	Peripherally located lung cancer
Key Mechanisms	Single fraction SBRT is equally effective as multiple fractions, reducing overall radiation exposure.
Target Population	Patients with peripheral non-small cell lung cancer and potentially those with metastases to the lung.
Care Setting	Outpatient oncology settings, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Highlights

Single fraction SBRT is as effective as three, four, or five fractions.
One treatment costs one-third of the price of multiple treatments.
Single fraction therapy reduces patient visits, enhancing safety during the pandemic.
Supported by multiple national and international guidelines.
Potential application for patients with lung metastases from any primary site.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of peripheral non-small cell lung cancer.

Management

Adoption of single-fraction SBRT for treatment.

Monitoring & Follow-up

Monitor patient outcomes to ensure efficacy and safety.

Risks

Consider financial toxicity and its impact on patient survival.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with peripheral non-small cell lung cancer.

Single fraction SBRT offers a cost-effective and convenient treatment option.

Clinical Best Practices

Implement single-fraction SBRT protocols in clinical practice.
Educate patients on the benefits of single-fraction treatment.
Continuously evaluate treatment outcomes to support ongoing practice adjustments.