[Radiotherapy of kidney cancer]

The benefit of low-dose preoperative radiotherapy in hypernephroma has not been proven in phase-II studies. Medium-dose preoperative radiotherapy many transform inoperable to operable tumors in numerous cases. In a randomized study, no prolongation of survival has been found, however. Many retrospective studies, in part with questionable design, have found no value of routinely used postoperative irradiation. Presently, it is indicated in advanced local tumor stages (pT3 and pT4) and residual tumors. Postoperative radiotherapy in high-risk patients using defined techniques and preoperative radiotherapy applying modern diagnostic equipment for treatment planning remains to be evaluated. For palliation, radiotherapy is useful treating brain-, lung- and bone metastases and inoperable primary tumors.