Hemostatic radiotherapy for bleeding gastrointestinal tumors

Abstract

Hemostatic radiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment for bleeding gastrointestinal (GI) tumors, promoting tumor shrinkage, blood supply reduction, and fibrotic tissue formation. It is effective in cases where traditional interventions are insufficient or contraindicated and can prevent recurrent bleeding in patients with GI bleeding histories. Hypofractionation schedules are also effective for tumor control and patient compliance.

Keywords: Gastrointestinal tumors; Hemostatic radiotherapy; Palliative radiotherapy; Acute bleeding; Hypofractionation

Core Tip: Hemostatic radiotherapy (RT), a non-invasive approach, is used in bleeding gastrointestinal (GI) tumors to induce tumor shrinkage and diminish blood supply. This therapy reduces tumor size, seals ruptured blood vessels and reduces bleeding. It also fosters fibrotic tissue formation and enhances platelet adhesion to the vascular endothelium. Hemostatic RT is particularly relevant when traditional interventions are insufficient or contraindicated, and can prevent recurrent bleeding in patients with a history of GI bleeding tumors. The optimal dose fractionation for hemostatic RT is debated, but hypofractionation schedules have proven effective for tumor control and patient compliance.