Carcinoma of the Cervix Uteri: Treatment by Supervoltage Irradiation Only

Abstract

1. Arguments are put forward for the use of supervoltage irradiation alone as an alternative to intracavitary irradiation with or without supplementary external irradiation. The theoretical advantages postulated for such treatment are that the primary lesion and its areas of direct and lymphatic spread in the pelvis would be irradiated simultaneously and homogeneously with adequate doses but without local over-dosage. No anaesthesia would be needed and there would be little irradiation hazard to operator or staff. 2. A technique is described using the Theratron Rotating Cobalt Unit employing two arcs and two centres of rotation. 3. The response of 17 cases is described and it is seen that supervoltage irradiation alone brings about adequate radiation reaction in cervix and vagina and good clinical regression of the primary lesion and of parametrial extension as the immediate result of treatment in the majority of cases. 4. There is a remarkable absence of ill effects, constitutional disturbances and recta...