SABR Techniques for Metastatic Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores two methods of delivering high-dose radiation treatment, known as Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR), for individuals with a few metastatic cancer spots. The aim is to determine whether a single large dose (single fraction) or multiple smaller doses (multiple fraction) is more effective in terms of side effects, cancer control, and overall cost. Some participants will also assist researchers in understanding how symptom tracking and medical advice impact quality of life and healthcare expenses. Suitable candidates have 1-5 metastatic cancer spots, have had their primary tumor controlled for at least 3 months, and can use electronic devices to complete surveys. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance future cancer treatments.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking chemotherapy agents (drugs used to treat cancer) starting one week before radiation treatment and continuing until one week after the last radiation session.
What prior data suggests that SABR techniques are safe for treating metastatic disease?
Research has shown that both single session (SF) and multiple session (MF) Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) treatments are generally well-tolerated by patients. A study comparing the safety of these methods found similar rates of serious side effects, indicating neither method is significantly more harmful than the other. This suggests that both SF and MF SABR are equally safe options.
For SF SABR, another study with a follow-up of over three years showed good survival rates, indicating that the treatment is effective and does not cause severe long-term side effects. Similarly, MF SABR has demonstrated comparable safety, with no significant differences in serious side effects compared to SF SABR, according to another study.
These findings encourage those considering SABR as a treatment option. Both SF and MF SABR have been thoroughly studied and have shown consistent safety records.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the SABR techniques for metastatic disease because they offer a potential improvement over traditional radiation therapy. Unlike conventional methods that typically involve numerous sessions over several weeks, the study is exploring the effectiveness of single and multiple fraction Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR), which can deliver precise, high-dose radiation in fewer sessions. This could lead to more convenient treatment schedules and less time in therapy for patients. Moreover, the trial is investigating how patient-reported outcomes and symptom-based HCP interventions can optimize care, potentially leading to better quality of life and personalized treatment adjustments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for metastatic disease?
This trial will compare different SABR techniques for metastatic disease. Research has shown that both single fraction (SF) and multiple fraction (MF) targeted radiation therapy effectively treat cancer that has spread. One study found that SF therapy controlled cancer in 91% of patients after one year when doses exceeded 20 Gy. Another study reported a 93% survival rate after one year with MF therapy. Participants in this trial will be randomized to receive either SF or MF SABR. Both treatments yield similar results in terms of safety, effectiveness, and survival. SF therapy is more convenient and uses fewer resources, while MF therapy has a longer history of use. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but both are promising for treating metastatic cancer.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Robert Olson
Principal Investigator
BC Cancer - Prince George
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults (18+) with 1-5 oligometastatic or progressing lesions, a controlled primary tumor, and no recent malignant cancers. They must be able to undergo immobilization for SABR treatment, have a life expectancy over 6 months, and complete questionnaires. Excluded are those with serious comorbidities affecting radiotherapy safety, large brain metastases (>3.5 cm), spinal cord compression without resection, pregnant/breastfeeding individuals, or if all disease sites can't be treated.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either single fraction or multiple fraction Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR)
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including quality of life assessments and adverse event monitoring
Quality of Life Assessment
Participants complete quality of life questionnaires and may receive healthcare provider-guided interventions based on symptom screening
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Multiple fraction SABR
- QoL reporting alone
- QoL reporting, symptom screen and healthcare provider intervention
- Single fraction SABR
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Robert Olson
Lead Sponsor
British Columbia Cancer Agency
Lead Sponsor
London Regional Cancer Program, Canada
Collaborator
Tom Baker Cancer Centre
Collaborator
Princess Margaret Hospital, Canada
Collaborator