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Should Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy Be Used for Oligometastatic Disease?
Robert A Olson1, David A Palma2
1The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
NEJM Evidence
|February 6, 2024
Summary
Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) efficacy for oligometastatic cancer is unproven in major trials. Further research, including a proposed trial, is needed to determine if SABR is suitable for oligometastatic disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- The role of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in treating oligometastatic disease remains uncertain.
- High-quality evidence from phase 3 randomized controlled trials is lacking for many cancer types, including breast cancer.
Approach:
- This review examines the existing evidence base regarding SABR for oligometastatic cancer.
- A proposal for a new clinical trial is presented to directly address the clinical question.
Key Points:
- Current evidence does not definitively establish the efficacy of SABR in the oligometastatic setting.
- The need for robust clinical trials is highlighted to guide treatment decisions.
Conclusions:
- Further investigation is crucial to determine the appropriate use of SABR for patients with oligometastatic disease.
- The proposed trial aims to provide definitive data on SABR's benefit in this patient population.

