Prospective thermal dosimetry: the key to hyperthermia's future

Abstract

Purpose: This review summarizes recent results from two randomized trials testing the complete response rate and local control benefits for the addition of hyperthermia to external beam radiation.

Methods: In both series, there was a statistically significant benefit to adjuvant hyperthermia.

Results: The establishment of a standardized nomenclature for clinical hyperthermia prescription will help to facilitate the broader usage of hyperthermia.

Conclusions: Carefully conducted phase III trials with rigorous quality assurance must employ prospective thermal dosimetry to validate the role of hyperthermia in multi-modality therapy.