Clinical trials in a radiotherapy center.

ABSTRACT

The radiotherapy center should be peculiarly adapted to the conduct of clinical trials because of its organization and mode of operation. Centralization of therapeutic radiology, which is highly desirable, should ensure the attendance of large numbers of patients, which is essential for the conduct of any trial. A plea for simplicity of protocols is made and difficulties in the implementation of programs involving interdisciplinary management is emphasized. Although, with the application of considerable effort, clinical trials may provide answers to some clinical problems, it is probable that many advances in the field of radiotherapy, as in the past, will be derived from careful clinical observation and recording, and from frequent assessment of current treatment methods.