The Role of Radiotherapy in the Management of Bone Metastasis

Abstract

Radiotherapy (RT) is an effective method used in the management of bone metastases. Goal of the treatment is pain relief, reducing the need for analgesics, as well as prevention of pathological fracture and spinal cord compression, thus increasing quality of life. Approximately 1/3 of patients have been alleviated within 4 weeks after radiotherapy. Although single or multiple fractions can be applied, patients can benefit from single fraction treatments in terms of patient comfort and repeatability. In the case of spinal cord compression, RT is more suitable after surgery to ensure neurological stability. In oligometastatic state, curative high-dose RT is the current treatment approach for bone metastases.