article · Tanzania Journal of Science
Hypo-fractionated radiotherapy reduces the number of hospital visits required for cancer treatment, making it particularly useful in resource-limited settings. This research compared treatment planning outcomes between conventional three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy and hypo-fractionated intensity modulated radiation therapy for fifty patients with localised prostate cancer. Using identical patient computed tomography datasets within a treatment planning system, researchers calculated the equivalent uniform dose and tumour control probability for each technique. The conventional approach achieved a mean equivalent uniform dose of 71.58 Gy, representing 96.73 percent of the prescribed dose, alongside a tumour control probability of 95.6 percent. In comparison, the hypo-fractionated method reached an equivalent uniform dose of 60.7 Gy, or 97.92 percent of the prescribed dose, with a tumour control probability of 90.4 percent. The findings show broadly comparable tumour control between the two options.
Hypo-fractionated radiotherapy requires fewer treatment sessions than standard radiation regimens. In developing countries and resource-constrained healthcare environments, reducing clinic visits can expand patient access to care, optimise machine availability, and lower the overall burden on healthcare facilities while maintaining acceptable levels of tumour control.
This applied planning study informs clinical radiotherapy protocol design for oncology centres and treatment planning software developers. By benchmarking dosimetric metrics in localised prostate cancer, it helps healthcare providers weigh the logistical advantages of hypo-fractionated treatments. The work reflects applied, retrospective planning research, meaning further clinical adoption depends on local equipment capabilities and clinical verification.
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Hypo-fractionated (HF) radiotherapy offers a promising solution to improve access to cancer treatment in resource-limited settings, such as developing countries, by reducing the number of treatment sessions compared to conventional fractionation (CF). For effective implementation, evaluating Equivalent Uniform Dose (EUD) and Tumour Control Probability (TCP) is essential to ensure treatment efficacy across different radiotherapy techniques. This study compares treatment plans generated using Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy with Conventional Fractionation (3D-CRT CF) and Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy with Hypo-fractionation (IMRT HF) in patients with localized prostate cancer. A total of 50 patients were CT-simulated, and their images were imported into a Treatment Planning System (TPS). Planning Target Volume (PTV) and Organs at Risk (OARs) were delineated. Both IMRT HF and 3D-CRT CF plans were generated using identical CT datasets and isocenter positioning. Cumulative Dose Volume Histograms (DVHs) were extracted, and EUD and TCP values were computed using the EUD program. The mean EUD for IMRT HF was 60.7 ± 2.63 Gy (97.92% of the prescribed dose), while for 3D-CRT CF, it was 71.58 ± 4.8 Gy (96.73% of the prescribed dose). Mean TCPs were 90.4 ± 4.61% and 95.6 ± 5.52% for IMRT HF and 3D-CRT CF, respectively. Results indicate comparable tumour control, with 3D-CRT CF showing slightly higher TCP.
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DOI: 10.65085/2507-7961.1049
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