The Experience of Endobronchial Brachytherapy in Lung Cancer

Abstract

Purpose: Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBBT) is a useful modality for the palliation of symptoms caused by endobronchial tumor or compression from peribronchial tumor. We report our experience of treating lung cancer patients with Iridium-192 high-dose-rate (HDR) endobronchial brachytherapy (EBBT). Materials and Methods: From 2000 to 2006, 50 patients of advanced lung cancer received HDR-EBBT in our radiation oncology department. These patients were treated with Varians VS200 and treatment plans are based on Cadplan BT. The physicians from Medical Chest selected the patients whom are appropriate for the treatment and responsible for the insertion of endobronchial tube for EBBT. Most patients received 2 to 3 fractions of EBBT in 1-2 weeks. The dose of each fraction ranged from 300 cGy to 1000 cGy. The response of symptomatic relief was assessed with endoscope, radiography and the subjective sensation of these patients. Results: Relief of endobronchial tumor-related symptoms and external compression from peribronchial tumor was noted in 35 of 50 patients (70%) treated with EBBT. No grade III-IV complication was observed. Conclusion: HDR-EBBT is an effective and safe palliative tool in locally advanced lung cancer, with a relatively long duration of symptom palliation and a considerable improvement in the quality of life. There is also significant reduction of endobronchial obstruction.