Innovative Radiotherapy Technique Protects the Heart During Lung Cancer Treatment

A groundbreaking study presented at ESTRO 2025 introduces a novel approach in radiotherapy aimed at safeguarding the heart in lung cancer patients. The research, published in Radiotherapy and Oncology, showcases the RAPID-RT study, which employs a rapid-learning framework to evaluate treatment modifications in real-time, offering a more inclusive alternative to traditional clinical trials. Conducted by researchers at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, UK, the study focused on reducing radiation exposure to the upper part of the heart—a critical area identified as radiosensitive—hoping to improve patient survival by minimizing cardiac toxicity.

Lung cancer radiotherapy is highly effective, but proximity to the heart poses risks, necessitating precise techniques to limit radiation doses. Previous imaging research highlighted the top of the heart as a significant site of radiation exposure linked to patient outcomes. Inspired by these findings, a new heart-sparing method was integrated into routine clinical practice, targeting a defined Cardiac Avoidance Area (CAA) and limiting radiation to 19.5 Gy across 20–33 sessions, unless tumor coverage was compromised.

The RAPID-RT study analyzed data from 1,708 patients treated between January 2021 and February 2025. It divided participants into those receiving conventional radiotherapy and those treated with the new technique, which included all patients at the institution unless they chose to opt out. Early results demonstrated that almost all patients received the new treatment, with only one opting out, and showed promising signs of improved 12-month survival rates.

Unlike traditional trials, which can take years to yield results, RAPID-RT uses a real-world, rapid-learning model, utilizing routinely collected anonymized data to continuously refine treatment strategies. Experts believe this approach accelerates the adoption of effective innovations in radiotherapy.

This study marks a significant stride toward more pragmatic and inclusive clinical research, emphasizing adaptive treatment evaluation. Continued follow-up will determine long-term benefits and potential for further optimization, moving toward safer, more personalized lung cancer therapies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-radiotherapy-technique-aims-heart-lung.html