Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments for Lung Cancer
Leading Edge Radiotherapy Options in London's Top Institutions
Lung cancer remains one of the most common and serious types of cancer, but advances in medical technology now offer effective treatment options that can offer hope and improve outcomes without the need for invasive surgery. I am committed to providing the highest standard of care, utilising the latest in radiotherapy technologies within some of London’s most prestigious medical institutions.
Curative Treatment Options Beyond Surgery
For some patients with lung cancer that is localised to the chest, surgery may not be the best or preferred option. We specialize in state-of-the-art therapies that provide powerful alternatives, focusing on precise and targeted approaches that minimise impact to healthy tissues. Here, we outline several advanced treatments tailored to different stages of lung cancer.
How is SABR given?
Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer is typically administered using cutting-edge treatment machines like linear accelerators (Linacs) or CyberKnife systems. These advanced devices provide precise targeting capabilities, reducing radiation exposure to healthy tissues while effectively treating the tumour. Linacs, widely used for SABR, employ high-energy X-ray beams shaped to match the tumour's contours from various angles. CyberKnife systems use robotic technology to deliver radiation beams with exceptional accuracy from multiple directions. Both Linacs and CyberKnife systems can deliver the high radiation doses necessary for SABR while prioritizing patient safety and comfort. This advanced technology ensures optimal treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients undergoing SABR.
We’ll talk with you about the relative merits of each system for your individual needs before making a final treatment recommendation.
Understanding Oligometastatic and Oligoprogressive Lung Cancer
When dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis, it's important to understand the different stages and types of the disease. Two terms you might come across are oligometastatic and oligoprogressive lung cancer. These terms can sound complex, but here’s a simple explanation to help you understand what they mean.
Oligometastatic Lung Cancer
The word "oligometastatic" comes from "oligo," meaning few, and "metastatic," referring to the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Oligometastatic lung cancer is a form where the cancer has spread from the original (primary) tumour in the lung to a few other places in the body, but not widely. Common sites where these few metastases might be found include the brain, bones, liver, or other areas, but they are limited in number, typically up to five locations.
This stage of cancer is significant because it’s often considered a middle ground between early-stage cancer, which hasn’t spread beyond its original site, and widely metastatic cancer, which has spread extensively. This limited spread can sometimes be aggressively treated with a potential for prolonged control of the disease, using targeted therapies like radiotherapy.
Oligoprogressive Lung Cancer
"Oligoprogressive" lung cancer refers to a situation where, during treatment, most of the cancer responds well but a few spots of the cancer begin to grow again or show progression. This term highlights a partial response to the current treatment where the majority of the cancer is under control, but small, limited areas are "breaking through" or worsening.
In both oligometastatic and oligoprogressive scenarios, the limited number of cancer sites often allows for more focused and aggressive treatment options such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), which can target these few spots with high precision. This approach aims to control these limited areas of cancer without needing to change the overall treatment strategy for the entire disease.
Understanding these terms can help in discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider and exploring the most appropriate and targeted therapies available for managing the disease effectively.
Treatments Dr Wilson offers for oligometastatic disease
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) for Lung Cancer Brain Metastases
Lung cancer can spread to the brain, but Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) offers a non-invasive treatment that can control these metastases effectively. SRS involves delivering concentrated radiation doses precisely to the affected areas of the brain in one or a few sessions. This focus allows for maximum damage to the cancer cells with minimal risk to the rest of the brain's healthy tissues.
SABR/SBRT for Oligometastatic Disease
In cases where lung cancer has spread but remains limited to a few other areas (oligometastatic disease), SABR or SBRT can be used to target these metastases directly. This treatment is suitable for metastases in the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, liver adrenal glands, and spine. By targeting only the areas of disease, SABR/SBRT can significantly reduce the spread and impact of the cancer, often leading to prolonged survival and improved quality of life.
Benefits of Supportive Radiotherapy for Symptom Management in Lung Cancer
Supportive radiotherapy is an essential treatment option for patients with advanced lung cancer, focusing on improving symptoms and enhancing the quality of life. This type of therapy is particularly effective in managing pain, especially when cancer has spread to the bones. By reducing pain, supportive radiotherapy can help patients remain more active and comfortable, allowing them to participate more in daily activities and enjoy life more fully. An improvement in symptoms can also increase the functional capacity of patients, potentially making them eligible for additional treatments that may not have been options previously. This approach not only provides physical relief but also supports emotional and psychological well-being, offering a more holistic approach to cancer care.
Our Expertise and Facilities
Choosing the right treatment involves precise assessment and planning. I work in a team comprised of leading oncologists and specialists who are experts in their fields. We work together to ensure that every patient receives a personalised treatment plan that offers the best possible outcomes.
Our treatments are administered in some of London's most prestigious medical institutions, ensuring that you have access to top-tier medical care and comfort. The combination of our expert team and state-of-the-art technology like CyberKnife and Proton Beam therapies means that you can be confident in receiving the most effective and advanced treatments available.
Conclusion
I am dedicated to providing patients with access to the latest and most effective non-surgical treatments for lung cancer. I understand the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis and strive to offer not just treatments, but hope and a path towards recovery in a patient-centred, compassionate environment.
Should you or a loved one need consultation or wish to discuss potential treatment options, please contact me. We are here to help you navigate your treatment journey with expertise, care, and the most advanced technology available.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Ready to take the next step in your cancer care? Dr James Wilson specialises in innovative treatments for lung and skin cancer, providing personalised and compassionate care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey towards recovery.