Implementing borderless interinstitutional medical collaboration to increase feasibility of using protons in multidisciplinary treatment of pediatric cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Since April 2016, pediatric cancer proton therapy is been covered by public insurance. This development has not only facilitated the elimination of disparities but also improved collaboration between pediatric cancer treatment facilities and proton beam facilities. Methods: Ten patients were linked to proton beam facilities following initial treatment at our hospital between April 2019 and May 2021. We analyzed the collaborative methods employed within the proton therapy facility, the need for adjustments to the treatment schedule, and the occurrence of adverse events. Results: Ten patients diagnosed with medulloblastoma, ependymoma, Ewing sarcoma, pineal tumor, and Hodgkin lymphoma underwent proton therapy within an acceptable schedule delay. Conclusion: The implementation of borderless, sequential cooperation covering all of Japan holds the potential to provide equal opportunities for the multidisciplinary treatment of pediatric cancers using proton beam therapy.