Study Confirms Safety of Shorter Radiation Therapy Post-Prostate Surgery

Recent research indicates that abbreviated radiation therapy schedules after prostatectomy are a safe and effective option for men treated for prostate cancer. Traditionally, post-surgical radiation involves daily sessions over several weeks, which can pose a significant burden for patients. However, a new study published in JAMA Oncology suggests that delivering high-dose stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in just five sessions offers comparable safety and quality of life outcomes to conventional treatment.

Led by investigators from UCLA Health's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, the study examined 100 men who underwent SBRT following radical prostatectomy, with a follow-up period exceeding two years. The results showed that SBRT did not lead to increased side effects compared to standard radiation methods. About 25% experienced mild to moderate urinary issues, while severe urinary symptoms were observed in only 4%. Bowel complications remained low, with 3% experiencing moderate and another 3% experiencing severe symptoms. Importantly, patient quality of life remained similar across both treatment groups.

Advancements in MRI-guided radiation technology have contributed to these positive outcomes, enabling more precise targeting of cancerous tissues and minimizing damage to healthy structures. The study also highlighted that a narrower planning margin, combined with improved motion management, played a key role in reducing side effects.

The researchers emphasize that longer-term data is needed to confirm the sustained efficacy of SBRT after prostatectomy. Trials like UCLA's ongoing EXCALIBUR initiative aim to gather more comprehensive results. Nonetheless, these findings suggest that shorter, more convenient radiation schedules could significantly improve accessibility and patient experience, reducing healthcare costs and treatment time.

Overall, this study marks a step forward in prostate cancer treatment, demonstrating that high-dose, focused radiation therapies can be safely integrated into post-surgical care, potentially transforming standard practice in the future.