PREVENTION OF RADIATION RELATED COMPLICATIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF RECTAL ADENOCARCINOMA - THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DOSE VOLUME RELATIONSHIP

Citation
Jp. Gerard et al., PREVENTION OF RADIATION RELATED COMPLICATIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF RECTAL ADENOCARCINOMA - THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DOSE VOLUME RELATIONSHIP, Tumori, 81(3), 1995, pp. 114-116
Citations number
20
Categorie Soggetti
Oncology
Journal title
TumoriACNP
ISSN journal
03008916
Volume
81
Issue
3
Year of publication
1995
Supplement
S
Pages
114 - 116
Database
ISI
SICI code
0300-8916(1995)81:3<114:PORRCI>2.0.ZU;2-P
Abstract
Aim: To illustrate and stress the role of the dose volume relationship in the risk of radiation induced rectal complications. Methods: With different techniques of irradiation like contact x ray therapy, Iridiu m implant, external beam irradiation, intra operative electrontherapy, it is possible to irradiate different volumes from few centicubes to liters. Results: The data from the literature clearly demonstrate that high doses can be given safely in small volumes, but that doses of 50 Gy or more in large volumes are dangerous. The irradiation of the who le pelvis through two antero posterior (AP - PA) fields ecompassing mo re than 4 liters should not be recommended. Other classical risk facto rs must be taken into account when planning the treatment. Previous su rgery, obesity, diabetus, collagen disease, combined chemotherapy, all these factors can lead to a modification of the irradiation technique . Conclusions: A perfect technique of irradiation is mandatory to achi eve the best therapeutic ratio when treating rectal cancer. To avoid s evere complications the dose must be closely adapted to the irradiated volume.