Handbook of Palliative Radiation Therapy is a groundbreaking and indispensable resource for radiation oncologists, physicists, and other members of the radiation therapy team. Written by renowned experts in the field, this comprehensive guide provides the latest information on planning and administering radiation therapy for end-of-life cancer care.

Palliative radiation therapy is a crucial component of palliative care, which aims to improve the quality of life for patients with advanced stage or end-of-life cancer. Unlike curative radiation therapy, which is focused on eliminating cancer cells, palliative radiation therapy focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving comfort. It can be delivered in single-fractionated, hypofractionated, or conventional regimens, depending on the patient’s specific needs.

The handbook begins with an overview of the background and efficacy of palliative radiation therapy, as well as important considerations for patient selection and assessment of life expectancy. The authors discuss the various tools and models available for predicting life expectancy, including Recursive Partitioning Analysis, the TEACHH tool, and the Number of Risk Factors score. This information is crucial for determining appropriate treatment plans and optimizing patient care.

The bulk of the book is dedicated to site-specific malignancies, with each chapter providing comprehensive literature reviews, treatment plans, toxicity information, and symptom management strategies. The authors cover a wide range of malignancies, including brain tumors, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, and more. Each chapter is enhanced with over 20 color figures, illustrating best practices and enhancing understanding.

One of the unique features of this handbook is the inclusion of self-assessment questions, clinical cases, and clinical pearls throughout the chapters. These elements help to reinforce key points and facilitate learning. Readers will also find valuable information on delivering radiation therapy to patients with significant symptoms, such as bleeding, dysphagia, airway obstruction, and other painful and debilitating side effects.

The authors also discuss the appropriate considerations when combining palliative radiation therapy with analgesics, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to pain management in palliative care. The goal is to provide patients with the best possible quality of life while managing their symptoms and relieving their pain and suffering.

With its comprehensive and evidence-based approach, Handbook of Palliative Radiation Therapy is a must-have resource for any clinician involved in end-of-life cancer care. The book not only provides practical guidance on delivering radiation therapy, but also highlights the importance of compassionate and patient-centered care. By incorporating the latest research and best practices, this handbook sets a new standard for palliative radiation therapy.

If you are a radiation oncologist, physicist, or member of the radiation therapy team, this book will be an invaluable addition to your professional library. Its practical approach and comprehensive coverage make it a go-to resource for planning and administering palliative radiation therapy. Order your copy today and take your palliative care practice to the next level.

Product Details

• eBook Digital: 216 pages
• Publisher: Demos Medical; 1 edition (November 14, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1620700956
• ISBN-13: 978-1620700952
• Product Dimensions: 5.1 x 0.5 x 8.2 inches