Palliation in esophageal cancer with a single session of intraluminal irradiation.

Abstract

From September 1987 to December 1989, 36 patients with advanced esophageal cancer entered a study in order to determine the efficacy of palliation by a single session of intraluminal irradiation. A dose of 15 Gy was administered at 1 cm distance from the central axis of the applicator. In 22 of 32 patients alive at least 6 weeks after treatment dysphagia improved, in 14 this relief was complete. Re-obstruction occurred in 8 of the 22 responders, but a second treatment with intraluminal irradiation gave improvement in six. Intraesophageal prostheses were needed in only 6 of the 36 patients. Intraluminal irradiation is easy to administer and safe, it forms a useful addition to the therapeutic possibilities for the palliation of esophageal cancer.

• Authors: J J Jager, M Pannebakker, J Rijken, J de Vos, F J Vismans
• Journal: Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (Radiother Oncol) Vol. 25 Issue 2 Pg. 134-6 (Oct 1992) ISSN: 0167-8140 [Print] Ireland
• PMID: 1279749 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Cesium Radioisotopes

Topics

• Adenocarcinoma (radiotherapy)
• Aged
• Brachytherapy
• Carcinoma, Squamous Cell (radiotherapy)
• Cesium Radioisotopes (therapeutic use)
• Deglutition Disorders (prevention & control)
• Esophageal Neoplasms (radiotherapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Palliative Care (methods)
• Radiotherapy Dosage