[Curative radiotherapy of early-stage lung cancer using respiratory motion compensation]

In this paper we present our early experience with a method for the management of respiratory motion in radiotherapy for early-stage lung cancer. Forty-six patients were irradiated with a total dose of 60 Gy. Tumor response on control CT, survival, local and distant progression as well as early and late side effects were registered. Complete and partial remission, stable and progressive disease was 17 (37.0%), 15 (32.6%), 11 (23.9%) and 3 (6.5%). Isolated local recurrence and distant metastasis appeared in 4 (8.7%) and 2 (4.3%) cases, while simultaneous local and distant progression was diagnosed in 3 (6.5%) patients. The probability of 2-year local recurrence-free, progression-free, and overall survival was 76.8%, 64.0%, and 83.2%. Grade 1 (G1) and G2 early side effects occurred at 15 (32.6%) and 3 (6.5%) patients without ≥G3 side effects. G1 and G2 late side effects were observed in 10 (21.7%) and 7 (15.2%) cases. G1-2 post-irradiation fibrosis occurred in 11 (23.9%) cases. Twenty months after the irradiation, G5 respiration failure was developed in one patient. The implemented technique of respiratory motion management for the radiotherapy of early-stage lung cancer resulted in promising local freedom from relapse and survival with favorable side effect profile. Further follow-up is needed to assess longterm side effects and survival results.