Precision radiation may offer better pain relief for spine metastases

NCT ID NCT02800551

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a more intense, precisely targeted type of radiation (SBRT) works better than standard radiation for reducing pain from cancer that has spread to the spine. About 219 adults with painful spinal metastases took part. The main goal was to see if SBRT leads to greater pain improvement at 6 months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
radiation therapy (stereotactic body radiation therapy vs. conventional 3D conformal radiotherapy)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could provide better and longer-lasting pain relief for people with cancer that has spread to the spine, potentially improving quality of life.
What could go wrong
This is a phase 2 trial, so results are still preliminary. The higher radiation dose might also cause more side effects, and the benefit may not be large enough to change standard practice.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for SPINAL METASTASIS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UniversitätsSpital Zürich, Klinik für Radio-Onkologie

    Zurich, 8091, Switzerland

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.