Thermoradiotherapy for persistent cancer in previously irradiated fields

Among some 300 patients undergoing clinical trails with localized radiofrequency hyperthermia, 42 whose cancers had persisted or recurred after conventional radiotherapy were selected for additional limited radiation plus hyperthermia. There were 10 complete responses to therapy, 13 partial responses and one patient was considered nonevaluable. In the remaining 18 patients there was minor regression, stabilization or progression of the tumor. After completion of treatment, five of the tumors appeared operable and surgical resection was accomplished in four. The results of this study support the concept that hyperthermia has a potentiating effect when used in conjunction with radiation therapy.