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David Palma: Just Launched a Rapid Palliative VMAT Program
Aug 3, 2025, 00:39

David Palma: Just Launched a Rapid Palliative VMAT Program

David Palma, Radiation Oncologist and Professor at Western University, shared a post on X:

“Our centre just launched a Rapid Palliative VMAT program, allowing us to quickly create and deliver highly conformal plans to improve symptoms.

I’ve had 2 cases in 2 days. For this one, I did the contours at 10 AM and the plan was ready at 4 PM.

Our protocol uses a semi-automated script, with dosimetrist input. It allows us to optimize for just a few OARs, and we can deliver 8/1, 20/5, or 30/10.
The protocol was designed and implemented by our APRT Melissa O’Neil, with RO Chris Goodman and some of our dosimetrists.

It’s a good example of how APRTs can bring new protocols into place that improve our quality of care.

We don’t have RCT evidence yet for these VMAT plans vs. older techniques (we are waiting for the results of Robert Anton Olson’s SUPR-3D trial), but I don’t think anyone would volunteer to get POPs or 3DCRT to this area instead of VMAT.”

David Palma

More posts featuring David Palma on OncoDaily.