Multiple daily fractions of radiation in the palliation of pain from bone metastases

Twenty consecutive patients have been treated for palliation of pain from bony metastases with radiotherapy using a regime of multiple daily fractions. Patients received up to three treatments daily with 3-4 hour intervals between fractions. Pain was relieved in all cases and pain relief took place earlier in the treatment than with conventional daily regimes. Nausea was mild in most cases. Some factors in its aetiology are discussed. Acute skin reactions were minimal. The total dosage required and the advantages and disadvantages of the method are discussed.