Surgery Versus Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
This study is looking into the best way to treat early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. Doctors are comparing two main treatments: surgery and a very focused type of radiation therapy called Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT). The aim is to understand how well each treatment works and what their effects are on patients' quality of life. Participants will share their experiences for up to three years. This research is important because it helps doctors and patients make informed decisions about treatment options for this type of lung cancer. It involves patients who are suitable for both treatments.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called 'Surgery Versus Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer'. That's a bit of a mouthful, but what it means is that doctors are comparing two ways to treat a common type of early-stage lung cancer.
Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer. 'Stage I' means it's caught early and hasn't spread. The two treatments being compared are surgery, where doctors remove the cancer, and 'Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy' (SBRT), which is a very precise type of radiation that targets the cancer while trying to protect healthy tissue. Doctors and researchers want to find out which treatment is better for patients in terms of success and how they feel afterwards.
By taking part, patients will help doctors learn more about these treatments. They'll be asked about their experiences and how they're feeling for up to three years. This information is really important because it helps improve care for future patients with early-stage lung cancer, allowing doctors to offer the best treatment choices.
Key takeaways
- This study compares surgery and SBRT for early-stage lung cancer.
- It aims to understand how well each treatment works and affects patients' lives.
- Participation involves sharing your experiences for up to three years.
- It's for people over 18 with early non-small cell lung cancer.
- You must be considered suitable for both treatment types by your doctors.
- Your treatment choice is made by your medical team, not the study.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you would need to have been diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer that hasn't spread. Doctors will check recent scans, like CT or PET scans, to confirm this. You would also need to be at least 18 years old.
Crucially, you must be well enough for *both* surgery and SBRT radiation therapy. This means doctors would look at your general health, how active you are, and your lung function. For example, if you need oxygen at home, you might not be eligible. If your heart health is affected, that would also be taken into account.
Both a surgeon and a radiation doctor would need to confirm that you are a suitable candidate for both types of treatment being studied. They would look at your medical records and discuss your case to ensure you fit the specific health requirements for each treatment.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Have you been diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer that hasn't spread?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have your doctors confirmed you are generally well enough for both surgery and SBRT radiation therapy?
- Do you not need home oxygen?
- Is your heart health generally good (NYHA I-II functional symptoms)?
- Have both a lung surgeon and a radiation oncologist confirmed you are suitable for both types of treatment?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, the doctors involved will decide on your treatment plan (either surgery or SBRT) as they usually would. After this decision, you'll be asked to give your consent to be part of the study. Your treatment will then go ahead as planned.
The main part of your participation involves sharing your experiences and how you're feeling for up to three years, or for the length of the study, whichever comes first. This is called 'patient-reported outcomes'. This typically involves filling out questionnaires about your health and quality of life. Doctors will also collect information about how your treatment worked for you.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (8)
- Emory UniversityVerified postcodeAtlanta, United States
- Carle Cancer InstituteVerified postcodeUrbana, United States
- Washington University School of MedicineVerified postcodeSt Louis, United States
- Memorial Sloan KetteringVerified postcodeNew York, United States
- Duke UniversityVerified postcodeDurham, United States
- Cleveland ClinicVerified postcodeCleveland, United States
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterVerified postcodeHouston, United States
- University of TorontoVerified postcodeToronto, Canada
Common questions
What is non-small cell lung cancer?
It's the most common type of lung cancer, and 'stage I' means it's an early form that hasn't spread.
What is SBRT?
SBRT stands for Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy. It's a very precise type of radiation that delivers high doses to the tumour while trying to protect surrounding healthy tissue.
Will I get to choose my treatment?
Your treatment (surgery or SBRT) will be decided by your doctors with you, as part of your standard care, before you officially join the study.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll be asked to provide information about your health and feelings for up to three years, or for the duration of the study.
Will my regular care change if I join the study?
No, your regular medical care will not change. This study is about collecting information on standard treatments.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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