Normally, a separate radiation plan is drawn up for each individual metastasis. The metastases are then irradiated one after the other. However, metastases located close to each other can often be "combined" in a single radiation treatment plan. Treating two or more metastases with a single radiation plan could have the following advantages:
- Shorter treatment duration
- Increased comfort
- Cost reduction
Aim of the study
In this study, we are investigating whether radiotherapy according to a joint radiotherapy plan for 2 or more closely spaced metastases is as effective as the current standard therapy (radiotherapy according to individual radiotherapy plans for each individual metastasis). Normally, a separate radiation plan is drawn up for each individual metastasis. The metastases are then irradiated one after the other. However, metastases located close to each other can often be "combined" in a single radiation treatment plan. We are doing this study to show that treatment with a single radiation plan for two or more metastases offers better comfort for the patient, with the same efficacy.
Who can take part?
Patients for whom radiotherapy of two or more metastases is indicated. These metastases (or two or more of the metastases) are not located in the brain and are close to each other.
Procedure
In our study, participants are randomly divided into groups. If you are assigned to the trial group, we will draw up a joint radiation plan for your metastases that are close to each other. Your closely spaced metastases are then treated according to this radiation plan. If you are assigned to the control group, we will draw up one radiotherapy plan per metastasis for the radiotherapy of your closely located metastases. Each of your closely located metastases will then be treated individually according to the radiation plan drawn up for each metastasis. The radiation planning in the control group corresponds to the current clinical standard. Follow-up care after completion of radiotherapy is the same for participants in both groups and corresponds to the current clinical standard. Participation in the study ends with the follow-up appointment after one year.
Compensation
Original study name
Radiotherapy of several extracranial metastases simultaneously according to a joint radiotherapy plan vs. successively according to one radiotherapy plan per metastasis
BASEC number
2023-01904
Financial support from
University of Zurich