The efficacy and tolerability of ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy in low-intermediate risk prostate cancer patients: single center experience

Abstract

Background: We aimed to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy (UHRT) in the treatment of low and intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted using data derived from 44 patients who underwent UHRT, and toxicity assessment and clinical response were investigated. Treatment consisted of 35–36.25 Gy in 5 fractions using stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) with the Linac-based delivery system. Results: The median duration of follow-up was 52 months (8–68 months) and the median age was 71.5 years (54–85 years). Twenty-seven patients were assigned as intermediate-risk, whereas 17 patients had low-risk. The 5-year overall survival rate was 87.8%, while the 5-year biochemical recurrence-free survival (bRFS) rate was 97.4%. Acute grade 3 genitourinary (GU) side effect was not observed in any patient, whereas acute gastrointestinal (GI) system grade 3 side effect was seen in 6.8% of the patients. Late grade 3 GU and GI side effects were seen in 4.6% and 6.8% of the patients, respectively. In patients with planning target volume (PTV) ≥85 ml, acute grade ≥2 GU side effects were more common (p=.034). Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that UHRT administered with volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) can be recommended for selected patients with low-intermediate risk prostate cancer. Further prospective, multicentric, controlled trials on larger series are warranted to reach more accurate conclusions.