N. S. Koneru1,2, J. Sick3, T. Koneru3, K. Rauch4, B. Horton3, B. Fellows5, K. Smith6, and R. E. Shaffer7,8; 1FHN / Leonard Ferguson Cancer Center, Freeport, IL, 2Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 3FHN Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center, Freeport, IL, 4Ferguson Cancer Center, Freeport, IL, United States, 5FHN, Freeport, IL, United States, 6Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center, Freeport, IL, 7GenesisCare UK, London, United Kingdom, 8International Organisation for Radiotherapy for Benign Conditions, London, United Kingdom
Purpose/Objective(s): This retrospective study aims to evaluate the efficacy of low dose radiation therapy (LDRT) in the treatment of osteoarthritis across various joints, assessing pain relief and functional improvement. Materials/
Methods: A total of 51 patients with osteoarthritis, involving 85 affected joints, were treated with LDRT between January and December 2023 at the Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center. The distribution of treated joints included 32 hands, 7 shoulders, 1 elbow, 8 hips, 32 knees, and 5 feet/ankles. Each patient received a total dose of 3 Gy delivered in fractions of 0.5 Gy every other day. Pain and functionality were assessed using a pain scoring sheet before treatment, on the final treatment day, and at the 3-month follow-up. A subgroup of 23 patients received a second course of LDRT. Results: Following LDRT, 72% of patients experienced a significant improvement in pain and functionality. Pain scores were notably reduced, and patients reported enhanced joint mobility and daily functioning. Conclusion: Our retrospective analysis demonstrates the potential efficacy of LDRT in managing osteoarthritis across various joints, with notable improvements in pain and functionality observed in a majority of patients. These findings underscore the value of LDRT as a promising therapeutic option for osteoarthritis, warranting further investigation through prospective studies and larger cohorts.
