Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells in the specific area being treated. The goal of radiotherapy is to stop cancer cells from growing, shrink the tumour, or eliminate it entirely. Standard external beam radiotherapy involves delivering multiple beams of radiation to the treatment site, typically administered in daily sessions over several weeks.

Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), however, uses numerous smaller, highly focused beams of radiation directed from different angles that converge at the tumour. This technique allows the tumour to receive a concentrated dose of radiation while significantly reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thereby minimising damage to normal cells. SABR treatments are usually completed over a shorter timeframe, often within a few days to two weeks. Your doctor or radiographer will provide details about the number of sessions required and the overall treatment schedule.

Various specialised machines can deliver SABR, and your radiographer will inform you about the specific equipment used for your treatment. SABR’s precision and efficiency make it an advanced option for targeting tumours while protecting healthy tissue.

Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is a versatile treatment option employed for various cancer types and scenarios. It can be used to treat small primary lung cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma, certain prostate and pancreatic cancers, as well as metastatic cancers that have spread to areas such as the lung, liver, lymph nodes, or spine. SABR may also be utilised in cases where surgery is not feasible or to re-treat areas previously exposed to radiotherapy, owing to its exceptional precision. However, the suitability of SABR depends on several factors, including the cancer’s location, size, and extent of spread. It’s crucial to understand that SABR isn’t appropriate for all patients, and oncologists carefully assess each case to determine its suitability. The treatment’s precision allows for its application in previously irradiated areas, potentially offering a treatment option where conventional radiotherapy might be unsafe due to prior exposure. As with all cancer treatments, the decision to use SABR is made based on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s specific circumstances and overall health status.

During your radiation therapy session, you’ll be alone in the treatment room. However, rest assured that your radiation therapists are monitoring you constantly via cameras and microphones. The treatment machine may rotate around you and produce buzzing noises, but it won’t make physical contact with you. It’s important to understand that radiation itself is imperceptible – you can’t see, feel, smell, or taste it. If you experience any discomfort or concern during the procedure, simply raise your hand or call out. The radiation therapists can promptly pause the treatment to address your needs. This setup ensures your safety and comfort while allowing for precise treatment delivery.

During or after stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), you may experience some side effects; however, this treatment typically results in fewer side effects compared to standard external beam radiotherapy due to the lower radiation dose received by healthy tissues. Side effects often do not manifest immediately and may develop during the treatment course or in the days and weeks following its completion. In some cases, side effects may worsen temporarily before improving after treatment ends. There is also a small risk of long-term or late effects, which can emerge months or even years after radiotherapy. Your doctor, specialist nurse, or radiographer will discuss any potential late side effects with you. Since individual reactions to treatment can vary, your healthcare team will provide guidance on what to expect and encourage you to report any side effects you experience during or after radiotherapy. Common general side effects of SABR include fatigue for several weeks post-treatment, skin reactions in the treatment area—such as redness, dryness, itchiness, or darkening of the skin approximately 10 to 12 days after treatment—and soreness or swelling in the affected area. Specific side effects may vary depending on the area being treated; for instance, you might experience chest pain, a cough, shortness of breath, a raised temperature, or issues related to eating and digestion.

Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is a sophisticated form of external radiotherapy, also known as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). The terminology used may vary depending on the treatment area, equipment employed, and duration of therapy.

SABR is utilised to treat various body areas, whilst a similar technique called stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is specifically used for brain tumours. It’s worth noting that separate information is available regarding radiotherapy for brain tumours.

The availability of SABR is limited in the UK, with the treatment not offered at all hospitals. If your doctor deems SABR suitable for your condition, they may refer you to a specialist centre that provides this advanced treatment option.

When discussing SABR, healthcare professionals might use different terms based on:

• The specific body region being treated
• The type of machinery utilised
• The overall length of the treatment course

It’s important to understand that despite the varying nomenclature, these terms generally refer to the same precise, high-dose radiotherapy technique designed to target tumours whilst minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.