Bone Cancer

The TROG 03.08 BONEMETS trial involved 850 patients globally (114 from TROG Cancer Research) and compared a single large dose of radiation with five (or eight) smaller doses for patients with bone metastases (secondaries) previously treated at the same site with radiation therapy. Pain was improved in about half of the patients with either schedule, although there were fewer side effects with the single dose option. Patients who responded to the re-irradiation had improved quality of life.

Neuropathic pain due to bone metastases occurs when cancer has spread to bone and irritates or compresses nearby nerves. The TROG 96.05 trial found that five smaller doses of radiation therapy delivered over five days are slightly more effective than one larger dose delivered on one day.