A multi-institutional analysis of fractionated versus single-fraction stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in the treatment of primary lung tumors: a comparison between two antipodal fractionations

Abstract

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a consolidate treatment for inoperable early-stage lung tumors, usually delivered in single or multi-fraction regimens. We aimed to compare these two approaches in terms of local effectiveness, safety and survival. Patients affected by medically inoperable early-stage lung tumor were treated at two Institutions with two different schedules: 70Gy in ten fractions (TF) (BED10: 119Gy) or 30Gy in single fraction (SF) (BED10: 120Gy). 73 patients were treated with SBRT delivered with two biological equivalent schedules: SF (44) and TF (29). The median follow-up was 34months (range 3-81months). Three-year Overall survival (OS) was 57.9%, 3-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) was 77.2%, with no difference between treatment groups. Three-year progression-free survival (LPFS) was 88.9% and did not differs between SF and TF. Overall, four cases (5.4%) of acute grade ≥ 3 pneumonitis occurred. No differences in acute and late toxicity between the two groups were detected. SF and TF seems to be equally safe and effective in the treatment of primary inoperable lung tumors especially for smaller lesion. The SF may be preferentially offered to reduce patient access to hospital with no negative impact on tumor control and survival.