The pilot trial evaluated the safety and feasibility of using 4D-CT ventilation imaging in lung functional avoidance radiation therapy for lung cancer patients.
A total of 33 patients were analyzed, with results showing low rates of serious side effects: 4.2% for pneumonitis and 12.5% for esophagitis in conventionally fractionated RT, while stereotactic body RT had no serious adverse events.
The study concluded that the use of functional avoidance plans significantly reduced lung radiation exposure without affecting the treatment's effectiveness, marking a promising approach in lung cancer radiotherapy.