Three-dimensional treatment planning and target volume definition of tendinitis and bursitis - Consensus statement of the International Benign Target Volume Group (IBTVG)
In brief
International panel defines 3D radiation target volumes for common tendinitis and bursitis
Experts used a Delphi process to agree on CT-based gross, clinical and planning target volumes for low-dose radiotherapy in shoulder bursitis, lateral elbow tendinitis, trochanteric pain, Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis, and linked each to ICD-10 codes. The standardized maps aim to improve reproducibility, safety and enable future trials, though clinical impact remains to be tested.
- Journal
- International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics (Q1)
- Published
- 3 September 2026
- Study design
- Practice guideline / consensus
- Evidence level
- Level 1, High (CEBM 1c)
- Authors
- Thomas Weissmann, Michael Heinrich Seegenschmiedt, David Rene Steike, Richard Shaffer, Jan Kriz, Felix Pascher, et al.
- PMID
- 42692295
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2026.08.062
Why clinicians should know about it
- Picked for Radiation Oncology (top studies of the week, 6 September 2026): Consensus target volumes for low-dose radiotherapy
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders, particularly tendinitis and bursitis, are major contributors to global disability and healthcare burden. Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) has emerged as a promising treatment for refractory cases, demonstrating anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, especially in inflammatory conditions. However, the lack of standardized treatment volumes hampers reproducibility, radiation safety, and broader clinical adoption. To address this gap, an international panel of experts applied the Delphi method to develop consensus-based target volumes for LDRT in common indications such as shoulder bursitis, lateral elbow tendinitis, trochanteric pain syndrome, achilles tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis. Utilizing a standardized CT-based homunculus, target volumes were delineated in a 3D Cartesian coordinate system to enable precise definition of gross tumor volume (GTV), clinical target volume (CTV), and planning target volume (PTV). Additionally, associated ICD-10 codes were defined to facilitate clinical documentation, billing, and future research. This structured approach provides a foundation for consistent treatment protocols, improved radiation protection, and future prospective trials to refine LDRT application in benign musculoskeletal conditions.
Abstract as published, via PubMed.
For healthcare professionals. The summary is generated by AI from the published abstract, and the evidence level is assigned automatically from the study design on the Oxford CEBM hierarchy. Neither is medical advice. Read the full paper before changing practice.