The efficacy of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy on pain and quality of life in patients with painful bone metastases: a prospective study

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the efficacy of radiation therapy in alleviating pain and improving the quality of life (QoL) with validated questionnaires in patients with painful bone metastases (BoM). Methods This prospective, observational study recruited 167 patients with painful BoM who were treated with palliative radiotherapy (PRT) from February 2015 to February 2018. After the first clinical assessment, the patients filled out specific questionnaires and underwent a fast radiotherapy treatment within 48 hours. The patients were followed up for eight weeks. Results The median age was 66.30 years. The most common primary cancer was lung cancer (31.1%). The most often prescribed scheme was 8 Gy in one fraction (70%). The patients experienced significant pain response and improved QoL compared with baseline, especially in the first two weeks after radiation. Overall, reduced pain and drug score were reported at two weeks of PRT in 68 (51.5%) and 37 (28%) of patients, respectively. Conclusions PRT is an effective treatment option for patients with painful BoM.