Research methodology and new radiotherapy technology
Calvo, F.A.; Ortis de Urbina, D.
Rays 25(3): 353-359
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0390-7740 PMID: 11367901 Document Number: 517632
In the last 25 years there were major dramatic advances in radiotherapy technology with the improvement in treatment quality and a stimulus to clinical research in an era of rigorous control of information in oncology. In radiation oncology, research methodology has aimed at the application in clinical practice of the information provided by basic research, always considering the related ethical principles. A number of trials based on boosting techniques with dose-escalation are in progress and an improved long-term survival is expected; however a prospective analysis of unexpected late side-effects is required. Some personal recommendations for clinical researchers involved in new radiotherapy technology are suggested.