Ultrahypofractionated breast radiotherapy during SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic, beyond fast-forward trial: a local experience

• DOI: 10.1017/s1460396921000650
• Publication Date: 2022-01-20T04:12:56Z
• Authors: Sundus Yahya; Tamseel Fatima; Amy Louise Irwin; Melanie Clayton; David Spooner; Indrajit Fernando; Andrea Stevens; Jenny Sherriff; Daniel Henderson
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; 3. Good health

Abstract Background: During the SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust Oncology Department incorporated ultrahypofractionated regime of 26Gy/5 fractions alongside moderate hypofractionated 40Gy/15 as part local adjuvant breast radiotherapy treatment (RT) for eligible patients. We conducted a study to assess real-life experience patients undergoing schedule compare feasibility and toxicity fast-forward trial during COVID − 19 pandemic. Methods: A single institution, retrospective, qualitative study. Patients included had early-stage cancer received between 23 March 2020 31 May 2020, total 211 Inclusion was irrespective any other neoadjuvant/adjuvant treatments. Data were collected retrospectively dose, boost dose toxicity. Results: Of patients, 85 treated with 26Gy in 5# per protocol. these 15·9% did not report skin post-treatment. 63·5% reported RTOG Grade 1, 2, 1·6% 3 3·2% could be contacted follow-up. who boost, 10·53% no changes. 78·9% 1 Both Grades 2a 2b by 5·26% each. The patient demographics tumour characteristics our cohort comparable those within trial. In terms post-RT toxicity, fewer UHB versus trial, number 2/3 toxicities also low. delay reporting from 2 weeks observed. Conclusion: Our concluded that offering ultrahypofractionation convenient patients; reducing hospital visits pandemic appeared safe acute post-RT-related reduced limited exposure staff while ensuring efficient use Radiotherapy resources. Local follow-up protocols have been amended ensure review at acknowledge development. To date, there is only 5-year relapse data available trial; therefore, hypofractionation schedules should offered long they fulfil criteria understand limitations well accelerated peer processes face