[Single-fraction radiotherapy of painful bone metastases]

We analyzed first results obtained in 92 patients treated with single-dose fraction radiotherapy for painful bone metastases. Tumour doses was 10 Gy in a single fraction. Response was obtained in 59/92 (64%) patients. Thirty nine patients had complete response and 20 had partial response. Pain recurred in 18/39 patients who initially responded. Toxicity of this radiotherapeutic treatment is acceptable, and can easily be managed with standard therapy.