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Carbon ion radiotherapy for unresectable sacral chordomas
Reiko Imai1, Tadashi Kamada, Hiroshi Tsuji
1Research Center Hospital for Charged Particle Therapy, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba.
Summary
Carbon ion radiotherapy shows significant efficacy and safety for unresectable sacral chordomas. This treatment offers a promising alternative to surgery, maintaining patient mobility and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Sacral chordomas are rare bone tumors.
- Unresectable sacral chordomas present significant treatment challenges.
- Surgical management often leads to substantial morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of carbon ion radiotherapy for unresectable sacral chordomas.
- To assess long-term outcomes including survival and local control.
- To determine the safety profile and impact on patient quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 30 patients with unresectable sacral chordomas treated with carbon ion radiotherapy.
- Median follow-up of 30 months.
- Carbon ion dose ranged from 52.8 to 73.6 GyE in 16 fractions over 4 weeks.
Main Results:
- High local control rate (96% at 5 years) and favorable survival rates (52% overall, 94% cause-specific at 5 years).
- Two patients experienced severe skin/soft tissue complications requiring skin grafts.
- All patients remained ambulatory and independent at home post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Carbon ion radiotherapy is an effective and safe treatment for unresectable sacral chordomas.
- It provides a promising alternative to surgical intervention.
- The treatment preserves patient mobility and independence.