This study assessed whether Spatially Fractionated Radiation Therapy (SFRT) influences symptom control and survival among patients harboring large-volume tumors.
Approach:
Study Design: Retrospective analysis of 60 patients treated with SFRT from February 2023 to May 2025.
Key Findings:
Symptomatic improvement occurred in 55 of 60 patients (91.7%) at a median follow-up of 15.8 months (range, 3.8–30.8).
Among 51 patients with evaluable imaging, 45 showed tumor regression.
Overall response rate (ORR) was 33.3%, and disease control rate (DCR) was 96.1%.
Median overall survival (OS) was 7.6 months (95% CI: 4.3–10.9).
BED-Vertex of ≥ 88 Gy was significantly associated with treatment response (P = 0.020).
Adverse events were mild to moderate, with no grade 3 or higher toxicities.
Interpretation:
SFRT appeared effective against bulky tumors while producing limited toxicities.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce bias.
Limited sample size of 60 patients.
Short follow-up duration may affect long-term outcome assessment.
Compliance with treatment protocols was not systematically evaluated.
Conclusion:
SFRT may improve symptom management and survival in patients with bulky tumors, but further studies are needed to address compliance and long-term outcomes.
