Key clinical point: Adjuvant breast intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in the prone vs. supine position was less toxic in women with large breast size and early-stage breast cancer (BC) who underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS).
Major finding: IMRT in the supine vs. prone position was significantly associated with higher rates of desquamation anywhere in the breast and grade 3 desquamation in the overall cohort (odds ratio [OR] 1.78; P = .002, and OR 2.09; P < .001, respectively) and among women receiving extended fractionation (OR 1.92 and OR 2.76, respectively; both P < .001). The quality of life outcomes were similar between both treatment arms.
Study details: This phase 3 study included 357 women with large breast size and early-stage BC who underwent BCS and were randomly assigned to receive adjuvant IMRT in the supine or prone position.
Disclosures: This study was supported by Canadian Cancer Society. Dr. Rakovitch declared receiving grants and personal fees from some sources, and Dr. Pignol declared being employed by Accuray Inc.
Source: Vesprini D et al. Effect of supine vs prone breast radiotherapy on acute toxic effects of the skin among women with large breast size: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Oncol. 2022 (May 26). Doi: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2022.1479