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Fractionation Approaches in Whole Breast RT

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To review the current approaches to fractionation from phase III prospective randomized trials for postlumpectomy whole breast radiation therapy (WBRT) for early-stage breast cancer.

Recent Findings

Moderate hypofractionation (M-WBRT) given Monday through Friday over 3–4 weeks is now standard practice for almost all patients needing postlumpectomy WBRT. The use of M-WBRT is being expanded to include regional node irradiation (RNI) and may be further shortened by a tumor bed boost that is concurrent rather than sequential to avoid extra days of treatment. And for selected patients, there is now an option for ultra-hypofractionation (U-WBRT) that further shortens WBRT to as few as 5 treatments in 1 week.

Summary

When WBRT is indicated after lumpectomy for early-stage breast cancer, moderate hypofractionation over 3 weeks is the preferred radiation schedule for most patients. Select patients are eligible for a 1-week schedule using ultra-hypofractionation.

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Data Availability

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  1. Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Gary M. Freedman

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Freedman, G.M. Fractionation Approaches in Whole Breast RT. Curr Breast Cancer Rep 15, 160–167 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12609-023-00495-1

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