Radiobiology of Benign Disease

This session explores the role of Low Dose Radiotherapy (LDRT) in treating osteoarthritis (OA), a prevalent and debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide. Despite its widespread use in Europe, LDRT remains underutilized in the United States. Recent international studies have demonstrated significant improvements in pain relief and mobility for OA patients treated with LDRT, highlighting its potential as a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to traditional therapies. The session may include educational discussions of the pathophysiology of OA and the background of the current treatment landscape of OA, emphasizing the limitations of existing therapies. The session can include a radiobiology focus on the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of low-dose radiotherapy, as well as delve into the historical and modern applications of LDRT, examining and reviewing recent clinical evidence that supports its efficacy and safety. The discussion addresses the controversies surrounding LDRT, including the potential risk of secondary malignancies, and provide guidance on treatment planning, including dose fractionation and energy considerations. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of integrating LDRT into OA management protocols and explore future research directions necessary to solidify its role in clinical practice. This session aims to foster a renewed interest in LDRT among U.S. practitioners and encourage collaborative efforts to re-evaluate its application in benign musculoskeletal disorders.

Target Audience

The meeting is designed to meet the interests of practicing radiation oncologists, radiation oncology residents, medical and clinical physicists, radiation therapists, radiation dosimetrists, nurses and all other health professionals involved in the field of radiation oncology.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to do the following:

  • Analyze the efficacy and safety of LDRT in osteoarthritis management.
  • Implement LDRT treatment protocols in clinical practice.
  • Discuss the risks and benefits of LDRT with patients and colleagues.
Course summary
Available credit: 
  • 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
    The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education for physicians. ASTRO designates this for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Course opens: 
04/21/2025
Course expires: 
04/20/2027
Cost:
$0.00
Rating: 
0

Faculty Disclosures

Planning Committee Disclosures
 

The person(s) above served as the developer(s) of this activity. Additionally, ASTRO Education Committee had control over the content of this activity.

All relevant relationships have been mitigated.

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Available Credit

  • 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
    The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education for physicians. ASTRO designates this for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Price

Cost:
$0.00
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