Hypofractionated radiation

Smw248

How common is hypofractionated radiation compared to traditional? My radiologist wanted me to do 6 weeks of radiation, but my insurance will only cover 3 weeks of hypofractionated. Is it less effective?

Salamandra

I think it's pretty common? Compliance is easier over a shorter time and by now there are plenty of studies showing it's not inferior. Many of us treated in the last few years had the shorter course. But if there's a particular medical reason your onc prefers the longer course for you, I'm sure there is a way he can push for it with the insurance.

Smw248

Thank you! Yeah, I think because I'm HER2+, Grade 3, and had lymph node involvement my doctor wanted the traditional 6 weeks.

kksmom3

I had the hypo fractionated, it's the same amount of radiation, but compressed into larger amounts at a time, spread over 3-4 weeks. Had 16 whole breast, with 4 boosts. Your doctor must have valid reasons for suggesting the regular schedule. I would ask him more about it, and your insurance company is being ridiculous!

Racheldog

Just in two of 4 weeks of rads. Was the boost easier

Redcanoe

I am doing hypofractionated even though mine was her2+ and lymph node positive. The cancer center here does hypofractionated for almost everyone and has for years. I questioned my RO about it and she was very comfortable putting me on a hypofractionated plan.

kksmom3

Racheldog, the boosts are easier, because the rest gets to start healing and you're also in the home stretch!

espressofixr57

I felt the boosts were easier. There was no breath hold needed. The procedure might have been slightly longer though, because the machine moved around me more times, and the table moved sometimes as well. I had 15 whole breast and 5 boosts. The best part was that is was the home stretch- the end was in sight