Single-Fraction Radiotherapy the Treatment of Choice for Painful Bone Metastases

According to a new study, for cancer patients with painful bone metastases, single-fraction radiotherapy is as effective as multiple-fraction radiotherapy but cheaper.

The Dutch study involved 1,157 patients with bone metastases who received single-fraction radiotherapy in an 8 Gray Dose or multiple-fraction in 6 fractions at 4 Grays each.

The results showed 43 weeks average life expectancy for single-fraction vs 40.4 for multiple fraction. Quality adjusted life expectancy was 17.7 weeks for single fraction and 16 weeks for multiple fraction. The estimated cost of radiotherapy, including retreatments and non-medical costs was significantly lower for single fraction ($2,438) than multiple fraction ($3,311).

Researchers said that physicians need not worry that single-fraction radiotherapy is substandard. It provides equal palliation, reduced waiting times and is less burdensome to the patients.

(Source: Journal of the National Cancer Institute 2003; 95: 222-229)