[Palliative radiation therapy of malignant tumor metastases to the bones]

The results obtained in irradiation of 106 patients with metastases of different malignant tumors in the skeleton are reported. Radiotherapy was carried out on a distance gamma-apparatus by two fractions, with a single dose of 650 or 850 rad. As a result of the therapy, pains disappeared in 32 patients, and in 60 patients these were diminished considerably. A prompt therapeutic effect of the method, its simplicity and effectiveness (an opportunity to raise the capacity of the apparatus and clinic where a patient stays) made it possible to recommend it for practical purposes of palliative irradiation.