Innovative techniques in modern radiation oncology: the economic and organizational impact

An overview of the impact of innovative techniques in modern radiotherapy on economic and organizational issues is proposed. The analyzed innovative procedures are: intraoperative radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, conformal radiotherapy and high dose rate brachytherapy. They are approached separately in terms of cost-benefit analysis, optimized management and estimated productivity. The introduction of these innovative techniques in the daily practice of radiation oncology departments is vital in the quest for excellence. The strictly monetary implications of programs for the implementation of innovative radiotherapy techniques are hindered by the present planned containment of public health care expenditure in western European countries.