Quad Shot Palliation, A Considerable Option for Non-Osseous Recurrent or Metastatic Malignancies in Elderly or Frail Patients.

Abstract

Background: Palliative radiation therapy (RT) is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of care for patients with advanced, incurable malignancies. In Pakistan, where patients often present at advanced stages due to socio-economic barriers and limited healthcare access, efficient and effective treatment protocols are essential. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Quad Shot hypo-fractionated RT protocol for pain palliation in elderly and frail patients with recurrent or metastatic non-osseous malignancies. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Oncology Department of Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore. Forty-two elderly patients with histologically confirmed inoperable malignancies and a WHO Performance Status of 2 to 3 were enrolled. Patients with prior RT or a second cancer were excluded. RT was delivered using a Cobalt-60 beam, with a total dose of 14 Gy divided into four fractions over two consecutive days. Pain severity was assessed using a 10-point scale before and four weeks after treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Sign Rank Test on SPSS version 25.0. Results: The study population comprised 52% males and 48% females, with the majority of primary tumors located in the head and neck (64%). Post-treatment, the mean pain score significantly decreased from 8.04 ± 1.22 to 4.32 ± 0.89 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The Quad Shot hypo-fractionated RT protocol effectively reduces pain in elderly and frail patients with advanced malignancies, suggesting its suitability as a quick and effective palliative care option in resource-limited settings.