The Insider's Guide to Radiation Therapy: Proton Therapy

On this episode of Oncology Unscripted, patient advocates Julie Johnson and Katie Coleman and radiation oncologist Dr. Matt Spraker continue The Insider's Guide to Radiation Therapy! 

Here are the figures/graphics we referenced during the show:

• The first figure we discussed, demonstrating the Bragg Peak and the difference between proton and photon (x-ray) beams. 
• The second figure we discussed, comparing 3D photon (x-ray) radiation, intensity modulated radiotherapy with photons (x-ray), passive scatter and intensity modulated proton therapy.

Here are some other things we discussed during the show:

• Relative biological effectiveness in radiobiology
• A video about "IMRT for proton therapy", or pencil beam scanning proton therapy, from manufacturer IBA.
• Brada review of proton evidence, questioning whether the US should open so many proton centers so quickly. 
• Goitein and Cox response to Brada, arguing that the benefit of proton therapy is self-evident.
• Glatstein, Glick, Kaiser, and Hahn, arguing that trials are needed to prove the benefit of proton therapy.
• Liao et al., randomized phase II trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
• RTOG 1308, randomized phase III trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Now filled, awaiting results!
• Lin et al., randomized phase IIB trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer.
• NRG GI-006, randomized phase III trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer, enrolling now!

Oncology Unscripted is a Photon Media production. Intro and Outro music by Emmy-award winning artist Lucas Cantor Santiago.

Additional content from Katie Coleman can be found at her website, https://www.katiekickscancer.com/. 

This show and our opinions are meant for general informational purposes and are not medical advice. We encourage you to reach out to your doctors to discuss your individual case.