Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy in the UK: current status and developments

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiotherapy
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) evolved from stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases.
• Advances in technology and evidence have established SABR for medically inoperable early lung cancer.
• Multidisciplinary team collaboration is essential for safe SABR delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and development of extracranial SABR across the UK.
• To outline the role of the UK SABR Consortium in standardizing SABR practices.
• To highlight the progress and future directions of SABR in the UK.

Main Methods:

• Development of collective guidance for patient selection, planning, and delivery techniques.
• Establishment of the UK SABR Consortium to coordinate centers and share expertise.
• Implementation of a mentoring program to support new SABR centers.

Main Results:

• At least 15 UK centers are currently delivering SABR, with over 500 patients treated under Consortium guidance.
• Over 30 UK centers are anticipated to offer SABR by the end of 2014.
• Consistent UK guidance facilitates toxicity and outcome auditing, contributing to international SABR experience.

Conclusions:

• SABR is an established treatment for early lung cancer in the UK.
• The UK SABR Consortium plays a vital role in standardizing and promoting SABR.
• Future priorities include further clinical research and participation in international trials.