Shows
ASTRO JournalsThe Micro-Story in Narrative WritingSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD explains a relatively new form of narrative writing called the Micro-Story, which is a subset of the writing genre called Flash Fiction. The presentation is based on two papers published in the January/February 2025 issue of PRO (2025, Issue 1, January/February). One paper is the first Micro-Story ever published in PRO with title: "The Black Car (Children Playing)." The second paper is an accompanying Editorial titled "Flash and FLASH: In Short, an Imaginary Bridge."
2025-01-3008 min
ASTRO JournalsThe Micro-Story in Narrative WritingEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD explains a relatively new form of narrative writing called the Micro-Story, which is a subset of the writing genre called Flash Fiction. The presentation is based on two papers published in the January/February 2025 issue of PRO (2025, Issue 1, January/February). One paper is the first Micro-Story ever published in PRO with title: "The Black Car (Children Playing)." The second paper is an accompanying Editorial titled "Flash and FLASH: In Short, an Imaginary Bridge."
2025-01-3008 minASTRO JournalsThe Micro-Story in Narrative WritingEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD explains a relatively new form of narrative writing called the Micro-Story, which is a subset of the writing genre called Flash Fiction. The presentation is based on two papers published in the January/February 2025 issue of PRO (2025, Issue 1, January/February). One paper is the first Micro-Story ever published in PRO with title: "The Black Car (Children Playing)." The second paper is an accompanying Editorial titled "Flash and FLASH: In Short, an Imaginary Bridge."
2025-01-3008 minASTRO JournalsPABR: Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable TumorEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD and Resident Physician, Daniela Martir, MD discuss Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumor. The discussion is based on a paper in PRO titled “Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy (PABR): A Widely Applicable Planning Technique for Palliation of Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumors” (PMID 39393770).
2024-12-0511 minASTRO JournalsPABR: Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable TumorSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD and Resident Physician, Daniela Martir, MD discuss Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumor. The discussion is based on a paper in PRO titled “Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy (PABR): A Widely Applicable Planning Technique for Palliation of Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumors” (PMID 39393770).
2024-12-0511 minASTRO JournalsPABR: Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable TumorEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD and Resident Physician, Daniela Martir, MD discuss Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumor. The discussion is based on a paper in PRO titled “Partially Ablative Body Radiotherapy (PABR): A Widely Applicable Planning Technique for Palliation of Locally Advanced Unresectable Tumors” (PMID 39393770).
2024-12-0511 minASTRO JournalsVulvar Cancer: Node ManagementEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses lymph node management in patients with vulvar cancer. The foundation for this discussion is a paper published in the May 2024 issue of PRO titled "Navigating the Complexities of Lymph Node Management in Vulvar Cancer: Insights and Perspectives." (2024, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 38336276). This paper is a Topic Discussion that summarizes key studies and then explains the authors current policy regarding radiotherapy to the regional lymphatics in operable and inoperable cases.Related articlesContouring Inguinal and Femoral Nodes; How Much Margin is Needed Around the Vessels?Consensus Recommendations for Radiation Therapy...
2024-07-1213 minASTRO JournalsVulvar Cancer: Node ManagementSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses lymph node management in patients with vulvar cancer. The foundation for this discussion is a paper published in the May 2024 issue of PRO titled "Navigating the Complexities of Lymph Node Management in Vulvar Cancer: Insights and Perspectives." (2024, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 38336276). This paper is a Topic Discussion that summarizes key studies and then explains the authors current policy regarding radiotherapy to the regional lymphatics in operable and inoperable cases.Related articlesContouring Inguinal and Femoral Nodes; How Much Margin is Needed Around the Vessels?...
2024-07-1213 minASTRO JournalsSBRT Reirradiation of Large Volume NSCLCEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses using SBRT dose schedules to re-irradiate large volume recurrences of locally advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer that has progressed following high-dose radiotherapy with conventional fractionation. The discussion is based on a paper published in the May 2024 issue of PRO titled "Thoracic Reirradiation with Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Recurrent Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)" (2024, Issue 3, May/June, PMID 38387781).
2024-05-3111 minASTRO JournalsSBRT Reirradiation of Large Volume NSCLCSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses using SBRT dose schedules to re-irradiate large volume recurrences of locally advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer that has progressed following high-dose radiotherapy with conventional fractionation. The discussion is based on a paper published in the May 2024 issue of PRO titled "Thoracic Reirradiation with Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Recurrent Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)" (2024, Issue 3, May/June, PMID 38387781).
2024-05-3111 minASTRO JournalsVaginal Dilator Use During RT for Anal CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses two papers published in PRO related to the question of using a vaginal dilator during radio-chemotherapy for carcinoma of the anus: "Daily Vaginal Dilator Use During Radiation for Women With Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus: Vaginal Wall Dosimetry and Patient-Reported Sexual Function" (2024, Volume 14, Issue 2, PMID 37898354) and "ECOG-ACRIN Guideline for Contouring and Treatment of Early Stage Anal Cancer Using IMRT/IGRT" (2022, Volume 12, Issue 4, PMID 35717050).
2024-04-2318 minASTRO JournalsVaginal Dilator Use During RT for Anal CancerSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses two papers published in PRO related to the question of using a vaginal dilator during radio-chemotherapy for carcinoma of the anus: "Daily Vaginal Dilator Use During Radiation for Women With Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus: Vaginal Wall Dosimetry and Patient-Reported Sexual Function" (2024, Volume 14, Issue 2, PMID 37898354) and "ECOG-ACRIN Guideline for Contouring and Treatment of Early Stage Anal Cancer Using IMRT/IGRT" (2022, Volume 12, Issue 4, PMID 35717050).
2024-04-2318 minASTRO JournalsPneumonitis with 60-72 Gy at 4 GyEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a paper from the March 2024 issue of PRO: "Dose-Volume Predictors of Radiation Pneumonitis After Thoracic Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy" (Volume 14 Issue 2, PMID 37984711). This paper suggests V5, V20, and Mean Lung Dose values to minimize grade ≥2 pneumonitis when treating lung cancer with the moderate hypofractionation programs of 60 or 72 Gy at 4 Gy per treatment. The values they propose are lower than those stated in consensus group guidelines.
2024-03-2213 minASTRO JournalsPneumonitis with 60-72 Gy at 4 GySend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a paper from the March 2024 issue of PRO: "Dose-Volume Predictors of Radiation Pneumonitis After Thoracic Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy" (Volume 14 Issue 2, PMID 37984711). This paper suggests V5, V20, and Mean Lung Dose values to minimize grade ≥2 pneumonitis when treating lung cancer with the moderate hypofractionation programs of 60 or 72 Gy at 4 Gy per treatment. The values they propose are lower than those stated in consensus group guidelines.
2024-03-2213 minASTRO JournalsEndometrial Cancer Molecular MarkersEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses using molecular markers to make decisions about adjuvant radiotherapy for Endometrial Cancer. The main references for the podcast are the PROshot article in the January 2024 issue of PRO (2024, Issue 1, January/February) and a Topic Discussion paper currently published online ahead of print with title "Path to Precision: Refining Radiation Therapy Guidelines for Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer Through Incorporation of Primary Tumor Size, Lower Uterine Segment Invasion, and Molecular Markers" (PMID 38048989).
2024-02-2813 minASTRO JournalsEndometrial Cancer Molecular MarkersSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses using molecular markers to make decisions about adjuvant radiotherapy for Endometrial Cancer. The main references for the podcast are the PROshot article in the January 2024 issue of PRO (2024, Issue 1, January/February) and a Topic Discussion paper currently published online ahead of print with title "Path to Precision: Refining Radiation Therapy Guidelines for Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer Through Incorporation of Primary Tumor Size, Lower Uterine Segment Invasion, and Molecular Markers" (PMID 38048989).
2024-02-2813 minASTRO JournalsRadiopaque Viscous Rectal Spacers With Prostate RadiotherapyEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the issues related to using a rectal spacer with prostate radiotherapy that is both radiopaque and viscous. The foundation of the discussion is a paper published in the 2024 January/February issue of PRO: “Application of a Radiopaque Viscous Hydrogel Spacer for Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy: A Prospective Phase 2 Study” with PMID 37791943. A related paper “Barrigel Spacer Injection Technique” with PMID 37657504 was also published in the issue of PRO.
2024-01-2620 minASTRO JournalsRadiopaque Viscous Rectal Spacers With Prostate RadiotherapySend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the issues related to using a rectal spacer with prostate radiotherapy that is both radiopaque and viscous. The foundation of the discussion is a paper published in the 2024 January/February issue of PRO: “Application of a Radiopaque Viscous Hydrogel Spacer for Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy: A Prospective Phase 2 Study” with PMID 37791943. A related paper “Barrigel Spacer Injection Technique” with PMID 37657504 was also published in the issue of PRO.
2024-01-2620 minASTRO JournalsFive Fraction SBRT for Prostate CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews the evidence for treating Low-Intermediate Risk prostate cancer with Ultra Hypofractionated SBRT. This discussion was stimulated by a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled "Long-Term Outcomes of a Prospective Study on Highly Hypofractionated Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer for 3 Weeks" with PMID 37414247. However, the majority of the podcast will focus on data supporting 5 Fraction SBRT, including the most recent report from the PACE-B trial (Abstract only from the 2023 ASTRO annual Meeting).
Additional Article:
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: A Radiosurgery Society Guide to the Treatment of Localized...
2023-12-2812 minASTRO JournalsFive Fraction SBRT for Prostate CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews the evidence for treating Low-Intermediate Risk prostate cancer with Ultra Hypofractionated SBRT. This discussion was stimulated by a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled “Long-Term Outcomes of a Prospective Study on Highly Hypofractionated Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer for 3 Weeks” with PMID 37414247. However, the majority of the podcast will focus on data supporting 5 Fraction SBRT, including the most recent report from the PACE-B trial (Abstract only from the 2023 ASTRO annual Meeting).
2023-12-2812 minASTRO JournalsFive Fraction SBRT for Prostate CancerSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews the evidence for treating Low-Intermediate Risk prostate cancer with Ultra Hypofractionated SBRT. This discussion was stimulated by a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled "Long-Term Outcomes of a Prospective Study on Highly Hypofractionated Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer for 3 Weeks" with PMID 37414247. However, the majority of the podcast will focus on data supporting 5 Fraction SBRT, including the most recent report from the PACE-B trial (Abstract only from the 2023 ASTRO annual Meeting). Additional Article:Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: A Radiosurgery Society Guide...
2023-12-2812 minASTRO JournalsChatGPT and Large Language Model Programs for Radiation OncologistsSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains how radiation oncologists are using ChatGPT and other Large Language Model programs in clinical practice. The discussion is based on a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled "Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, and Large Language Models: Practical Suggestions for Radiation Oncologists" (2023, Issue 6, November/December, PMID: 37598727).
2023-11-1016 minASTRO JournalsChatGPT and Large Language Model Programs for Radiation OncologistsEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains how radiation oncologists are using ChatGPT and other Large Language Model programs in clinical practice. The discussion is based on a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled "Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, and Large Language Models: Practical Suggestions for Radiation Oncologists" (2023, Issue 6, November/December, PMID: 37598727).
2023-11-1016 minASTRO JournalsChatGPT and Large Language Model Programs for Radiation OncologistsEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains how radiation oncologists are using ChatGPT and other Large Language Model programs in clinical practice. The discussion is based on a paper published in the November/December 2023 issue of PRO titled “Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, and Large Language Models: Practical Suggestions for Radiation Oncologists” (2023, Issue 6, November/December, PMID: 37598727).
2023-11-1016 minASTRO JournalsMeasuring the Quality of SRS and SBRT Treatment PlansEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the main values used to evaluate conformality and dose gradient in treatment plans with high intensity hypofractionated dose schedules as are used in radiosurgery or stereotactic body radiotherapy. The basis for the discussion is a paper published in the September 2023 issue of PRO titled "Benchmarking Tests of Contemporary SRS Platforms: Have Technological Developments Resulted in Improved Treatment Plan Quality?" (2023, Issue 5, September/October, PMID: 37290672).
2023-09-1318 minASTRO JournalsMisinformation About Cancer TreatmentEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses misinformation about cancer treatment. The discussion is based on a paper published in the July 2023 issue of PRO titled “Identifying Cancer Treatment Misinformation and Strategies to Mitigate Its Effects With Improved Radiation Oncologist−Patient Communication" (2023, Issue 4, July/August, PMID: 36736620).
2023-08-0310 minASTRO JournalsNeoadjuvant RT for Locally Advanced Breast CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses RT before, rather than after, mastectomy in patients with locally advanced breast cancer being treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The discussion is based on a paper published in the July 2023 issue of PRO titled “Pathologic Complete Response and Oncologic Outcomes in Locally Advanced Breast Cancers Treated With Neoadjuvant Radiation Therapy: An Australian Perspective" (2023, Issue 4, July/August, PMID: 36599393).
2023-07-2020 minASTRO JournalsNeoadjuvant RT for Locally Advanced Breast CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses RT before, rather than after, mastectomy in patients with locally advanced breast cancer being treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The discussion is based on a paper published in the July 2023 issue of PRO titled “Pathologic Complete Response and Oncologic Outcomes in Locally Advanced Breast Cancers Treated With Neoadjuvant Radiation Therapy: An Australian Perspective” (2023, Issue 4, July/August, PMID: 36599393).
2023-07-2035 minASTRO JournalsDose to Positive Nodes from Cervix CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses radiotherapy dose prescription to positive pelvic or paraaortic nodes when treating a cervix cancer patient with primary chemo-radiotherapy. The discussion is based on a paper published in the May 2023 issue of PRO titled "Management of Radiographically Positive Pelvic and/or Para-aortic Lymph Nodes During Primary Chemoradiation Therapy for Cervix Cancer" (2023, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 35529239). In this paper, three radiation oncologists with subspecialty experience in GYN oncology summarize relevant studies and then list the dose schedules they currently use.
2023-06-1513 minASTRO JournalsDose to Positive Nodes from Cervix CancerSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses radiotherapy dose prescription to positive pelvic or paraaortic nodes when treating a cervix cancer patient with primary chemo-radiotherapy. The discussion is based on a paper published in the May 2023 issue of PRO titled "Management of Radiographically Positive Pelvic and/or Para-aortic Lymph Nodes During Primary Chemoradiation Therapy for Cervix Cancer" (2023, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 35529239). In this paper, three radiation oncologists with subspecialty experience in GYN oncology summarize relevant studies and then list the dose schedules they currently use.
2023-06-1513 minASTRO JournalsDelivering Bad NewsEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses structured formats for delivering bad news to patients. The discussion begins with an explanation of the SPIKES protocol and a recent analysis identifying five behavior practices that enhance physician communication in clinical encounters. The discussion ends with review of a paper published in the May 2023 issue of PRO titled “
2023-05-0916 minASTRO JournalsDelivering Bad NewsSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses structured formats for delivering bad news to patients. The discussion begins with an explanation of the SPIKES protocol and a recent analysis identifying five behavior practices that enhance physician communication in clinical encounters. The discussion ends with review of a paper published in the May 2023 issue of PRO titled "Serious Illness Communication Training Among Radiation Oncology Residents" (2023, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 36526246). This paper demonstrates the use of a highly sophisticated education program involving simulated patients, didactic lectures, and independent evaluators to create a structured curriculum to teach and evaluate serious...
2023-05-0916 minASTRO JournalsDelivering Bad NewsEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses structured formats for delivering bad news to patients. The discussion begins with an explanation of the SPIKES protocol and a recent analysis identifying five behavior practices that enhance physician communication in clinical encounters. The discussion ends with review of a paper published in the May 2023 issue of PRO titled "Serious Illness Communication Training Among Radiation Oncology Residents" (2023, Issue 3, May/June, PMID: 36526246). This paper demonstrates the use of a highly sophisticated education program involving simulated patients, didactic lectures, and independent evaluators to create a structured curriculum to teach and evaluate serious illness communication skills of radiation...
2023-05-0916 minASTRO JournalsThe Medial-Inferior Extent of the Supraclavicular Nodal Target in Patients with Breast Cancer.Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an Editorial published in the March 2023 issue of PRO titled "Nailing the Clavicular Head: Assuring Adequate Coverage of the Medial/Inferior Aspect of the Supraclavicular Space in Patients Receiving Regional Nodal Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer" (2023, Issue 2, March/April, PMID: 36748209). This paper compares dose coverage of the nodes behind the clavicular head when elective nodal irradiation is planned with historic 2D landmarks versus contours as directed by three consensus group atlases: RTOG, ECOG, and NRG/RADCOMP. The authors suggest that all three contouring atlases have features that risk underdosing high risk nodes in the supraclavicular...
2023-04-0413 minASTRO JournalsThe Medial-Inferior Extent of the Supraclavicular Nodal Target in Patients with Breast Cancer.Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an Editorial published in the March 2023 issue of PRO titled "Nailing the Clavicular Head: Assuring Adequate Coverage of the Medial/Inferior Aspect of the Supraclavicular Space in Patients Receiving Regional Nodal Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer" (2023, Issue 2, March/April, PMID: 36748209). This paper compares dose coverage of the nodes behind the clavicular head when elective nodal irradiation is planned with historic 2D landmarks versus contours as directed by three consensus group atlases: RTOG, ECOG, and NRG/RADCOMP. The authors suggest that all three contouring atlases have features that risk underdosing high...
2023-04-0413 minASTRO JournalsUnanticipated Negative Consequences of New TechniquesEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses two Morbidity and Mortality Conference papers from the March issue of PRO: "Regional Recurrence after Carotid Sparing IMRT for Early Stage Glottic Cancer" (2023 Issue 2, PMID 36089251) and "Pneumothorax Associated with Deep Inspiration Breath Holding During Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer" (2023 Issue 2, PMID 36494031). Both these papers describe unanticipated negative consequences associated with innovative treatment techniques. It is never possible to be absolutely sure of a cause-and-effect relationship in a given situation, but these reports remind us that innovation often comes with risks that are not fully appreciated when they are initially evaluated.
2023-03-0815 minASTRO JournalsUnanticipated Negative Consequences of New TechniquesSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses two Morbidity and Mortality Conference papers from the March issue of PRO: "Regional Recurrence after Carotid Sparing IMRT for Early Stage Glottic Cancer" (2023 Issue 2, PMID 36089251) and "Pneumothorax Associated with Deep Inspiration Breath Holding During Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer" (2023 Issue 2, PMID 36494031). Both these papers describe unanticipated negative consequences associated with innovative treatment techniques. It is never possible to be absolutely sure of a cause-and-effect relationship in a given situation, but these reports remind us that innovation often comes with risks that are not fully appreciated when they are initially evaluated.
2023-03-0815 minASTRO JournalsNeoadjuvant Therapy for Rectal CancerEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses radiation and chemotherapy programs to use prior to surgical resection of rectal cancer. The main reference for the podcast is a Topic Discussion paper published in the January 2023 issue of PRO titled "Neoadjuvant therapy in the post-German rectal trial era: making sense in the absence of consensus" (2023, Issue 1, January/February). The discussion explains the concepts driving the evolution of neoadjuvant therapy, recommended radiotherapy and chemotherapy programs, and situations where it is acceptable to observe without surgery.
2023-02-1314 minASTRO JournalsNeoadjuvant Therapy for Rectal CancerSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses radiation and chemotherapy programs to use prior to surgical resection of rectal cancer. The main reference for the podcast is a Topic Discussion paper published in the January 2023 issue of PRO titled "Neoadjuvant therapy in the post-German rectal trial era: making sense in the absence of consensus" (2023, Issue 1, January/February). The discussion explains the concepts driving the evolution of neoadjuvant therapy, recommended radiotherapy and chemotherapy programs, and situations where it is acceptable to observe without surgery.
2023-02-1314 minASTRO JournalsPrimary Radiotherapy for Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s LymphomaEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses primary radiotherapy for early-stage Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma of Early Stage and Indolent Histology. The discussion begins with an explanation of lymphoma classification and then reviews two papers published in PRO:
"Prognostic Effect of Systemic Therapy and Radiation Therapy in Stage I Nodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma" (2023, Issue 1, January/February) and "Underutilization of Radiation Therapy in Early-stage Marginal Zone Lymphoma Negatively Impacts Overall Survival" (2016, Issue 4, July/August).
2023-01-1815 minASTRO JournalsPrimary Radiotherapy for Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s LymphomaSend a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses primary radiotherapy for early-stage Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma of Early Stage and Indolent Histology. The discussion begins with an explanation of lymphoma classification and then reviews two papers published in PRO:"Prognostic Effect of Systemic Therapy and Radiation Therapy in Stage I Nodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma" (2023, Issue 1, January/February) and "Underutilization of Radiation Therapy in Early-stage Marginal Zone Lymphoma Negatively Impacts Overall Survival" (2016, Issue 4, July/August).
2023-01-1815 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – December 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discussed two papers that were selected for review in the PROshot literature curation article published in the November/December 2022 issue of PRO. The title of the PROshot article is "PROshot: Borderline Resectable Pancreas SBRT, Surrogate Endpoints, Axillary Dissection, Genomic Classifiers, and Spine SBRT." The two articles discussed in this podcast are: "Efficacy of Preoperative mFOLFIRINOX vs mFOLFIRINOX Plus Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Borderline Resectable Adenocarcinoma of the Pancreas: The A021501 Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial" and "Mature Local Control and Reirradiation Rates Comparing Spine Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy with Conventional Palliative External Beam Radiation Therapy."
2022-12-1613 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – December 2022Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discussed two papers that were selected for review in the PROshot literature curation article published in the November/December 2022 issue of PRO. The title of the PROshot article is "PROshot: Borderline Resectable Pancreas SBRT, Surrogate Endpoints, Axillary Dissection, Genomic Classifiers, and Spine SBRT." The two articles discussed in this podcast are: "Efficacy of Preoperative mFOLFIRINOX vs mFOLFIRINOX Plus Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Borderline Resectable Adenocarcinoma of the Pancreas: The A021501 Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial" and "Mature Local Control and Reirradiation Rates Comparing Spine Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy with Conventional Palliative External Beam...
2022-12-1613 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – November 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper published in the November/December 2022 issue of PRO that presents the latest guidelines on CTV definition with postoperative radiotherapy for bladder cancer: "International Consensus Guidelines for Adjuvant Radiation Therapy for Bladder Cancer After Radical Cystectomy: Update From an IBIS Workgroup."
2022-11-0312 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – November 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper published in the November/December 2022 issue of PRO that presents the latest guidelines on CTV definition with postoperative radiotherapy for bladder cancer: "International Consensus Guidelines for Adjuvant Radiation Therapy for Bladder Cancer After Radical Cystectomy: Update From an IBIS Workgroup."
2022-11-0312 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – October 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the 2021 World Health Organization Classification of Adult Brain Gliomas and then comments on the guideline paper published in the September/October 2022 issue of PRO: "Radiation Therapy for IDH-Mutant Grade 2 and Grade 3 Diffuse Glioma: An ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline."
2022-10-1917 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – October 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the 2021 World Health Organization Classification of Adult Brain Gliomas and then comments on the guideline paper published in the September/October 2022 issue of PRO: "Radiation Therapy for IDH-Mutant Grade 2 and Grade 3 Diffuse Glioma: An ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline."
2022-10-1917 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – September 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a Topic Discussion paper from the September/October issue of PRO, "Variation in Routine Use of a 60-63 Gy Intermediate Dose CTV with Primary Radiotherapy for Mucosal Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck." This paper summarizes major published guidelines on the use of an intermediate risk target volume and the current practice of four clinicians that specialize in head and neck radiotherapy.
2022-09-1514 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – September 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a Topic Discussion paper from the September/October issue of PRO, "Variation in Routine Use of a 60-63 Gy Intermediate Dose CTV with Primary Radiotherapy for Mucosal Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck." This paper summarizes major published guidelines on the use of an intermediate risk target volume and the current practice of four clinicians that specialize in head and neck radiotherapy.
2022-09-1514 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – August 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews two PRO papers that discuss the risk of serious esophageal damage from Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy to a vertebral body. One article is a Morbidity and Mortality Conference paper titled : "Esophageal Damage from Thoracic Spine SBRT" and the other is a Technical Report titled "Efficacy of an Esophageal Spacer for Spine Radiosurgery: First Experience".Additional article: A Story of Hypofractionation and the Table on the Wall!
2022-08-1712 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – August 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews two PRO papers that discuss the risk of serious esophageal damage from Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy to a vertebral body. One article is a Morbidity and Mortality Conference paper titled : "Esophageal Damage from Thoracic Spine SBRT" and the other is a Technical Report titled "Efficacy of an Esophageal Spacer for Spine Radiosurgery: First Experience".
Additional article: A Story of Hypofractionation and the Table on the Wall!
2022-08-1713 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – August 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews two PRO papers that discuss the risk of serious esophageal damage from Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy to a vertebral body. One article is a Morbidity and Mortality Conference paper titled : “Esophageal Damage from Thoracic Spine SBRT” and the other is a Technical Report titled “Efficacy of an Esophageal Spacer for Spine Radiosurgery: First Experience”.
Additional article: A Story of Hypofractionation and the Table on the Wall!
2022-08-1713 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – July 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the group of six papers on radiopharmaceutical therapy published in the July/August issue of Practical Radiation Oncology. These papers summarize the information clinicians need to know to direct radiopharmaceutical therapy in their clinic. Two papers explain background information and four focus on patient selection and the details of administration when using Lutetium-177 DOTATATE for neuroendocrine cancer, and Lutetium-177 PSMA or Radium- 223 for prostate cancer.
2022-07-1315 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – July 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the group of six papers on radiopharmaceutical therapy published in the July/August issue of Practical Radiation Oncology. These papers summarize the information clinicians need to know to direct radiopharmaceutical therapy in their clinic. Two papers explain background information and four focus on patient selection and the details of administration when using Lutetium-177 DOTATATE for neuroendocrine cancer, and Lutetium-177 PSMA or Radium- 223 for prostate cancer.
2022-07-1315 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – July 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, explains the group of six papers on radiopharmaceutical therapy published in the July/August issue of Practical Radiation Oncology. These papers summarize the information clinicians need to know to direct radiopharmaceutical therapy in their clinic. Two papers explain background information and four focus on patient selection and the details of administration when using Lutetium-177 DOTATATE for neuroendocrine cancer, and Lutetium-177 PSMA or Radium- 223 for prostate cancer.
2022-07-1315 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – June 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, summarizes two essays from the Narrative Oncology section of recent issues of Practical Radiation Oncology. "The First Human Heart Transplant and Radiation Therapy" is published in the Jan/February issue and "The Gold Ring" in the May/June issue.
2022-06-1315 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – June 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, summarizes two essays from the Narrative Oncology section of recent issues of Practical Radiation Oncology. "The First Human Heart Transplant and Radiation Therapy" is published in the Jan/February issue and "The Gold Ring" in the May/June issue.
2022-06-1315 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – May 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews two papers that explain how to improve OAR sparing based on more demanding dosimetry goals. One article is published in the March/April issue of PRO titled "Clinical Use of A Priori Knowledge of OAR Sparing During Radiotherapy Treatment for Oropharyngeal Cancer: Dosimetric and Patient Reported Outcome Improvements". The other article is In Press at PRO and titled "Stricter Postoperative Oropharyngeal Cancer Radiotherapy Normal Tissue Dose Constraints Are Feasible".
2022-05-2013 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – May 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews two papers that explain how to improve OAR sparing based on more demanding dosimetry goals. One article is published in the March/April issue of PRO titled "Clinical Use of A Priori Knowledge of OAR Sparing During Radiotherapy Treatment for Oropharyngeal Cancer: Dosimetric and Patient Reported Outcome Improvements". The other article is In Press at PRO and titled "Stricter Postoperative Oropharyngeal Cancer Radiotherapy Normal Tissue Dose Constraints Are Feasible".
2022-05-2013 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – April 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the March/April issue of PRO, "Is elective inguinal or external iliac irradiation during neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy necessary for locally advanced lower rectal cancer with anal sphincter invasion?" This paper presents a nomogram to inform the decision about targeting the inguinal and external iliac nodes for elective dose radiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer that involves the anal canal. Other links: Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer: Executive Summary of an ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline
2022-04-0116 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – April 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the March/April issue of PRO, "Is elective inguinal or external iliac irradiation during neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy necessary for locally advanced lower rectal cancer with anal sphincter invasion?" This paper presents a nomogram to inform the decision about targeting the inguinal and external iliac nodes for elective dose radiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer that involves the anal canal. Other links: Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer: Executive Summary of an ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline
2022-04-0116 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – March 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the March/April issue of PRO, "Implications of medical board certification practices on family planning and professional trajectory for early career female radiation oncologists." This paper presents the results of a national survey and requests changes in the structure of the ABR examinations. The paper is accompanied by a commentary by ABR trustees.
2022-03-2115 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – March 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the March/April issue of PRO, "Implications of medical board certification practices on family planning and professional trajectory for early career female radiation oncologists." This paper presents the results of a national survey and requests changes in the structure of the ABR examinations. The paper is accompanied by a commentary by ABR trustees.
2022-03-2115 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – February 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the November/December issue of PRO, "A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare the Use of Conventional Dark-Ink Tattoo and Ultraviolet-Ink Tattoo for Patients Undergoing Breast Radiation Therapy." The term "Dark Ink" refers the standard tattoo that is visible on the skin in normal light conditions and permanent-meaning the tattoo remains visible for many years. The use of visible tattoos is still standard practice in many departments, but it has negative psychological effects in some patients and is difficulty to visualize in patients with very dark skin. The paper that Dr. Amdur...
2022-02-1412 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – February 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, reviews a paper from the November/December issue of PRO, "A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare the Use of Conventional Dark-Ink Tattoo and Ultraviolet-Ink Tattoo for Patients Undergoing Breast Radiation Therapy." The term "Dark Ink" refers the standard tattoo that is visible on the skin in normal light conditions and permanent-meaning the tattoo remains visible for many years. The use of visible tattoos is still standard practice in many departments, but it has negative psychological effects in some patients and is difficulty to visualize in patients with very dark skin...
2022-02-1412 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – January 2022Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a topic featured in the January/February issue of PRO, the scope of practice in radiation oncology. Dr. Amdur provides an overview of the key points from ASTRO’s 2002 SCOPE Report and compares it to the current report. An example of lifelong management of patients is provided in "Caring for the Whole Patient After Breast Cancer Therapy: A Survivorship Guide for Radiation Oncologists." Additional articles referenced include "Potential Financial Implications of Substituting Cognitive Medicine for Technical Radiation Oncology Billing Services" and "Diversifying for Growth or Longing for Yesterday." Check out the podcast page: ht...
2022-02-0216 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – January 2022Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a topic featured in the January/February issue of PRO, the scope of practice in radiation oncology. Dr. Amdur provides an overview of the key points from ASTRO’s 2002 SCOPE Report and compares it to the current report. An example of lifelong management of patients is provided in "Caring for the Whole Patient After Breast Cancer Therapy: A Survivorship Guide for Radiation Oncologists." Additional articles referenced include "Potential Financial Implications of Substituting Cognitive Medicine for Technical Radiation Oncology Billing Services" and "Diversifying for Growth or Longing for Yesterday." Ch...
2022-02-0216 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – December 2021Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses three Practice Pearls from the most recent PROshot article: Adjuvant radiation halves the rate of ipsilateral breast recurrences at 10 and 15 years with minimal late toxicity in women with good-risk ductal carcinoma in situ; women with early-stage vulvar cancer and sentinel lymph node micrometastases (≤2 mm) can safely forgo ipsilateral completion lymph node dissection to reduce morbidity, but those with macrometastases cannot; and prophylactic cranial irradiation using hippocampal avoidance for SCLC helps preserve short-term memory.
2021-12-0114 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – December 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses three Practice Pearls from the most recent PROshot article: Adjuvant radiation halves the rate of ipsilateral breast recurrences at 10 and 15 years with minimal late toxicity in women with good-risk ductal carcinoma in situ; women with early-stage vulvar cancer and sentinel lymph node micrometastases (≤2 mm) can safely forgo ipsilateral completion lymph node dissection to reduce morbidity, but those with macrometastases cannot; and prophylactic cranial irradiation using hippocampal avoidance for SCLC helps preserve short-term memory.
2021-12-0114 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – November 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a topic featured in the November/December issue of PRO, radiation therapy for femur metastases. Two letters in the issue (Recht et al. and Tseng et al.) debate the appropriate treatment regimen for radiation therapy to the intact femur. Dr. Amdur also references an editorial by Tseng et al., previously published in PRO, summarizing a clinical practice guideline for treatment of metastatic disease of the femur from the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society.
2021-11-0116 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – November 2021Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses a topic featured in the November/December issue of PRO, radiation therapy for femur metastases. Two letters in the issue (Recht et al. and Tseng et al.) debate the appropriate treatment regimen for radiation therapy to the intact femur. Dr. Amdur also references an editorial by Tseng et al., previously published in PRO, summarizing a clinical practice guideline for treatment of metastatic disease of the femur from the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society.
2021-11-0116 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – October 2021Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an article from the September/October issue of PRO, "Sparing the Larynx and Hypopharynx with Radiotherapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Unknown Primary Site and Predominant Adenopathy in Level IIA" and gives his five principles for deciding which mucosal sites to treat with an unknown primary.
2021-10-0114 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – October 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an article from the September/October issue of PRO, "Sparing the Larynx and Hypopharynx with Radiotherapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Unknown Primary Site and Predominant Adenopathy in Level IIA" and gives his five principles for deciding which mucosal sites to treat with an unknown primary.
2021-10-0114 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – September 2021Send a textEditor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first PROshot article and highlights two topic discussions from the September/October issue of PRO focused on medical marijuana, Medical Marijuana for Cancer: Perspective from a Radiation Oncologist Credentialed to Certify in Pennsylvania and Medical Cannabis to Treat Symptoms from Head and Neck Radiotherapy
2021-09-0910 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – September 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first PROshot article and highlights two topic discussions from the September/October issue of PRO focused on medical marijuana, Medical Marijuana for Cancer: Perspective from a Radiation Oncologist Credentialed to Certify in Pennsylvania and Medical Cannabis to Treat Symptoms from Head and Neck Radiotherapy
2021-09-0910 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – July 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the future of automated treatment planning and features an article from the May/June issue of PRO.
2021-07-0110 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – July 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the future of automated treatment planning and features an article from the May/June issue of PRO.
2021-07-0110 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – June 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the role of radiation oncology in the recently published prostate cancer guidelines and how to handle disagreements with colleagues when making decisions in a group setting.
2021-06-0113 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – June 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses the role of radiation oncology in the recently published prostate cancer guidelines and how to handle disagreements with colleagues when making decisions in a group setting.
2021-06-0113 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – May 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses three non-technical papers published in the May issue of Practical Radiation Oncology including the first of a new article type, Lessons from Art and Literature.
2021-05-1909 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – May 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses three non-technical papers published in the May issue of Practical Radiation Oncology including the first of a new article type, Lessons from Art and Literature.
2021-05-1909 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – April 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first of another new article type being published in PRO: Morbidity and Mortality Conferences. The featured piece is "Early Stage Pregnancy During Radiation Therapy to the Breast."
2021-04-0513 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – April 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first of another new article type being published in PRO: Morbidity and Mortality Conferences. The featured piece is "Early Stage Pregnancy During Radiation Therapy to the Breast."
2021-04-0513 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – March 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first of a new article type being published in PRO: Topic Discussions. The featured piece is "Postoperative Radiation Therapy to Pathologically Negative Neck Nodal Stations in Patients with Indications for Radiation Therapy at the Primary Site."
2021-03-2211 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – March 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, introduces the first of a new article type being published in PRO: Topic Discussions. The featured piece is "Postoperative Radiation Therapy to Pathologically Negative Neck Nodal Stations in Patients with Indications for Radiation Therapy at the Primary Site."
2021-03-2211 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – February 2021Send a text Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an article published in PRO, "Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Nonspine Bone Metastases: International Practice Patterns to Guide Treatment Planning." This article reports survey results regarding clinicians' preferred dose schedule for SBRT treatment of nonspine bone metastases, as well as how they feel about the dose schedules suggested by other respondents. Dr. Amdur shares four questions he uses based on this study when deciding how to treat patients in his clinic.
2021-02-0211 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – February 2021Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses an article published in PRO, "Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Nonspine Bone Metastases: International Practice Patterns to Guide Treatment Planning." This article reports survey results regarding clinicians' preferred dose schedule for SBRT treatment of nonspine bone metastases, as well as how they feel about the dose schedules suggested by other respondents. Dr. Amdur shares four questions he uses based on this study when deciding how to treat patients in his clinic.
2021-02-0211 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – January 2021In his debut podcast as Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses several of the new Practical Radiation Oncology journal initiatives upcoming in 2021. New projects include the establishment of a new article type, expansions of the journal’s social media presence, and an increase in regular podcasts.
2020-12-3108 minASTRO JournalsPRO Editor Podcast – January 2021Send a textIn his debut podcast as Editor-in-Chief, Robert Amdur, MD, discusses several of the new Practical Radiation Oncology journal initiatives upcoming in 2021. New projects include the establishment of a new article type, expansions of the journal’s social media presence, and an increase in regular podcasts.
2020-12-3108 min
Outbreak NewsSleep apnea: Symptoms, diagnosis and the CPAP machineSleep disorders, including sleep apnea, have become a significant health issue in the United States. It is estimated that 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with 80 percent of the cases of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea undiagnosed. Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA when left untreated can lead a multitude of health disorders. Joining me today to talk about sleep apnea is Adam Amdur. Mr Amdur is the Chief Patient Officer of the American Sleep Apnea Association.
2018-09-1218 min