Carcinoma of the Cervix: Radiation Salvage of Surgical Failures

Abstract

Irradiation can arrest postoperative persistent or recurrent carcinoma of the cervix. In a series of 38 consecutive cases, 42% of the patients were free of disease for more than 5 years. Small lesions yield a higher arrest rate. An occasional extensive recurrence can be arrested. Evidence has been presented that irradiation can destroy metastatic nodes from carcinoma of the cervix. The radiation technic must be tailored to fit the biologic and geometric requirements for each lesion. The tumor-lethal dose for carcinoma of the cervix varies considerably. It may range from 4,000 rads in 25 days to 10,000 rads in 70 days. In attempting to cure the high-dose lesions, some risk of radiation injury must be accepted.