Radical radiation therapy for lung cancer

Radical radiotherapy of lung cancer has been studied for over 30 years. Results of early trials are often cited to justify a wait-and-see approach for all nonresectable patients. Because of more accurate staging, better radiotherapy treatment planning and delivery, and recognition of nonanatomic prognostic factors, a 2-year survival rate of 20 to 30% is being credibly reported by national cooperative groups. Radical radiotherapy for lung cancer is a sophisticated process. Treatment planning to maximize the therapeutic ratio, adequate hardware, and an understanding and minimization of radiation complications are all necessary to optimize treatment.