Stereotactic ablative body radiation therapy (SABR) in NSW

A survey was conducted to establish the current utilisation of stereotactic ablative radiation therapy (SABR) services in NSW. The objective of the survey was to generate baseline data to inform requirements for a networked approach to the implementation of new radiation therapy techniques and technologies. All radiation therapy services in NSW were contacted by email with a request to complete a SABR service survey. Questions were designed to identify equipment used, treatment techniques in place, clinical sites treated with a SABR technique and plans to expand the current services offered. Each professional group was asked to identify areas of service delivery they would most like to improve. Sixteen responses were received representing 24 of 27 (89%) of NSW radiation therapy centres. The results indicate that most centres now treat with SABR, however the number of centres and the treatment sites are still increasing. VMAT treatments and 3D imaging are now commonplace. Liver was the most commonly reported treatment site where confidence in service delivery needed improvement. Data from the survey will be useful in formulating future collaborative and educational activities aimed at improving safety and efficacy in SABR service delivery to all patients in NSW and potentially the rest of the country.