Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy (SABR) is an innovative, non-invasive option for treating primary renal cell carcinoma (RCC), especially for patients who are not suitable for surgery. Historically, early-stage RCC has been treated through surgical options such as radical or partial nephrectomy (removal of the kidney or part of it). However, recent advances in SABR have shown that it can offer effective tumour control without the need for surgeryfor some patients’ surgery is considered too risky, making it SABR an excellent alternative for many patientsthem.
What is Kidney SABR?
Kidney SABR delivers high-dose radiation directly to the tumour in the kidney, using sophisticated imaging technologies to precisely target the cancer cells. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, which may require multiple sessions over weeks, SABR is typically completed in 1 to 5 sessions, making it a more efficient treatment option for patients.
The precision of SABR means that radiation is delivered with sub-millimeter accuracy, sparing the surrounding healthy kidney tissue and other nearby organs, such as the liver and intestines, from unnecessary exposure. This is particularly important in kidney cancer, where maintaining kidney function is crucial, especially for patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Who Benefits from Kidney SABR?
Kidney SABR is especially beneficial for:
- Patients ineligible for surgery: Patients who are considered high-risk for surgery due to age, underlying health conditions, or the location of the tumour may find SABR a safer, effective alternative.
- Medically inoperable patients: For individuals who cannot tolerate surgery due to other medical conditions, SABR provides a non-invasive yet powerful treatment option.
- Patients with small, localised tumours: For those with early-stage RCC, SABR has demonstrated excellent tumour control rates, comparable to surgery, making it an attractive option.
The Evidence Supporting Kidney SABR
Recent studies and clinical data have shown that SABR is highly effective in controlling primary kidney cancer, achieving local tumour control rates that rival those of surgical treatments. High-level evidence has demonstrated that SABR offers up to 95% local control, with minimal side effects and excellent outcomes. Additionally, the precision of SABR significantly reduces the risk of damaging surrounding healthy tissue, making it a highly appealing option for patients who want to preserve as much kidney function as possible.
Meta-analyses have confirmed that SABR can provide similar kidney function preservation as surgery or other ablative therapies. With fewer complications and a more convenient treatment course, SABR is increasingly being considered a primary option for treating RCC, especially in patients who might not be good candidates for surgery.
Benefits of Kidney SABR
- Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, SABR does not require incisions or anaesthesia. It is completely non-invasive, allowing patients to avoid the risks and extended recovery associated with traditional surgical procedures.
- Precision Targeting: Using advanced imaging technology, SABR targets the tumour with remarkable precision, delivering high doses of radiation to the cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. This is particularly important for patients with pre-existing kidney function concerns, as it helps preserve healthy kidney tissue.
- Shorter Treatment Time: While traditional radiation therapy can take several weeks, SABR treatments are typically completed in just 1 to 5 sessions, each lasting about 30 to 60 minutes. This makes SABR a more convenient and less time-consuming option for patients.
- Minimal Side Effects: Because SABR is highly targeted, it results in fewer side effects compared to more conventional treatments. Patients generally experience mild fatigue or discomfort but avoid the severe side effects often associated with surgery or prolonged radiation therapy. There may be some reduction in kidney function in the longer term.
- High Efficacy: SABR offers comparable tumour control to surgery in early-stage kidney cancer. In some cases, SABR has demonstrated local control rates exceeding 95%, making it a highly effective option for patients looking to avoid invasive treatment.. Additionally, SABR helps delay or prevent the need for systemic treatments such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, which can come with more serious side effects.
Looking Ahead
The evidence supporting SABR as a highly effective treatment for primary kidney cancer continues to grow, and its use is increasingly recognised as a key component in managing early-stage RCC. For patients who are unable or unwilling to undergo surgery, SABR offers a non-invasive, effective treatment option that delivers outstanding tumour control while preserving kidney function.
How Pinpoint Radiotherapy Can Help
At Pinpoint Radiotherapy, we specialise in offering advanced SABR treatments for primary kidney cancer. With our state-of-the-art technology and personalised care approach, we tailor each treatment plan to the unique needs of every patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes while minimising side effects.
If you or a loved one is exploring treatment options for kidney cancer, contact Pinpoint Radiotherapy today to learn more about how SABR can be part of your cancer care plan. Our team is here to guide you through the process and provide expert, compassionate care every step of the way.