Hypofractionated radiation therapy for prostate cancer: The McGill University Health Center experience

Purpose: In 2002, at the McGill University Health Centre, we began a program of hypofractionated radiotherapy for patients with low risk prostate cancer as an alternative to conventionally fractionated radiotherapy.

Material and methods: Our initial hypofractionation regimen was 66 Gy given in 22 fractions, prescribed to the isocenter, delivered with 3D-conformal radiotherapy plan. The clinical target volume was the prostate gland and the planning target volume consisted of the clinical target volume plus a 7-mm margin in all directions. Hormonal therapy was not given to any patient.

Results: The long-term results for this group of patients confirmed the feasibility, good tolerance and excellent disease control of the regimen with the extra-benefit of being convenient to both patients and the health system by shortening treatment duration. The outcomes of this approach stimulated us to use hypofractionation in patients with intermediate-risk. Analysis of 100 intermediate-risk patients receiving our hypofractionated radiotherapy regimen (no hormones) shows, at median follow-up of 75 months, 8-year biochemical recurrence free and cancer specific survival rates of 90% and 95%, respectively, with acceptable toxicity.

Discussion: Our technique changed from 3D to intensity modulated radiotherapy with the dose adjusted to 60 Gy in 20 fractions. Lastly, we have expanded the program to high-risk patients where IMRT treatments are given to the pelvic nodes (44 Gy in 20 fractions) with a simultaneous integrated boost delivery to the prostate (60 Gy in the same 20 fractions). Our long-term results have shown that moderate hypofractionated radiotherapy for prostate cancer is safe and provides good tumor control comparable to high-dose conventionally fractionated radiotherapy. This hypofractionated regimen has been routinely used in our institution.