Spatially Fractionated Radiation Therapy (SFRT) and Emerging Techniques
Description
Spatially Fractionated Radiation Therapy (SFRT) has generated significant interest as a promising approach for treating bulky and resistant tumors. Its effectiveness stems not only from the underlying physics and dosimetry but also from advances in modern radiobiology, which together help explain the encouraging clinical outcomes observed to date. This family of techniques spans from historical GRID therapy, through modern Lattice Radiotherapy, and now toward the next generation represented by SCART (Stereotactic Core Ablative Radiotherapy). Collectively, these strategies aim to: 1) Enhance tumor response and local control, especially in large or refractory tumors. 2) Leverage spatially heterogeneous dose distributions to stimulate immune and biological effects. 3) Better spare surrounding normal tissues compared with uniformly prescribed regimens. The session will integrate perspectives across physics, dosimetry, radiobiology, and clinical outcomes, providing a comprehensive view of how SFRT and its successors are reshaping the therapeutic landscape for patients with bulky disease.