PROPHYLACTIC PARA-AORTIC LYMPH NODE IRRADIATION IN PATIENTS WITH CERVICAL CANCER: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Para - aortic node involvement in cervical cancer is associated with relapses. Prophylactic para-aortic irradiation with conventional methods was associated with acute and chronic toxicities. With evolvement of radiation techniques, the adverse effects associated with para-aortic radiation have reduced. Materials and Methods: 30 patients with cervical cancer were managed with chemo-radiotherapy and followed up till a mean period of 15 months. Post para-aortic irradiation associated toxicities were observed. Results: Grade 1 acute gastro-intestinal toxicity was common than grade 2. No bone marrow constraints or grade 3 toxicities were observed in present study. Conclusion: conventional radiotherapy methods have higher rates of toxicities than compared to volumetric modulated arc therapy. Keywords: cervical cancer, para-aortic lymph nodes, arc therapy.