No abstract

Introduction: The aim of this analysis was a retrospective evaluation of the efficacy and toxicity of 2 hypofractionated irradiation schedules compared to conventional therapy in post-mastectomy patients. Methods: 3 irradiation schedules were analyzed: 48.30 Gy in 21 fractions (group A, n = 60), 42.56 Gy in 16 fractions (group B, n = 27) and 50 Gy in 25 fractions (group C, n = 30) of the front chest wall. All groups were also treated with a supraclavicular field, with 39.10 Gy in 17 fractions (group A), 37.24 Gy in 14 fractions (group B) or 45 Gy in 25 fractions (group C). Results: No local recurrences were noted in any group during 36 months of follow-up. Acute skin toxicity presented in all groups, with 58.3%, 70.4% and 60% of grade I; 35%, 25.9% and 40% of grade II; 6.7%, 3.7% and 0% of grade III being seen in groups A, B and C, respectively. Late skin toxicity was noted only as grade I in 16.7%, 25.9% and 26.7% of groups A, B and C, respectively. No significant difference was noted among all groups for either acute or late skin toxicity, or for radio-pneumonitis (chi2 test, p > 0.05). Conclusion: All schedules were equally effective with equivalent toxicity. A prospective randomized study is needed to confirm our results.

HighlightsLow dose TSEB of 12 Gy is an effective treatment option with therapeutic results more than acceptable.Comparable treatment results of Low Dose TSEB with Standard Full Dose scheme of 36 Gy.Less recorded toxicity of low dose TSEB than Standard Full Dose scheme of 36 Gy.

In conclusion, HBIe was proven effective in delivering the prescribed dose to the target area, while protecting the healthy skin.

PLA phantoms could be constructed and used for electron beam nonreference measurements, reproducing even more complex geometries, from simple quality assurance devices to geometrically complicated anthropomorphic phantoms.