The VITaL trial (Ventilation Imaging to reduce Toxicity for patients with Lung cancer) will test a novel imaging technique developed by Professor Paul Keall from the Image X Institute, University of Sydney. The technique, coined CT ventilation imaging, aims to protect healthy lung tissue during radiation therapy.
Radiotherapy is a key treatment for Stage I–III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but it carries a risk of radiation-induced lung injury, which may account for radiotherapy under-utilisation, despite availability and efficacy of treatment. VITaL will test whether imaging can guide radiation away from well-functioning lung regions and towards less functional areas. The goal is to reduce side effects and improve quality of life. Researchers will assess quality of life, lung function, and treatment completion. They will also explore whether patients are more likely to receive and complete immunotherapy after radiation.
The trial has received $1.86 million from the NHMRC through its Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grant scheme. The study highlights the strong collaboration across Australia’s thoracic oncology network. TOGA has endorsed the clinical trial and will assist with the recruitment of the 165 participants. TROG Cancer Research will lead the radiation therapy quality assurance (QA) program, and the University of Sydney will sponsor the trial, with support from the NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre for statistics, health economics, and quality of life analysis. International expansion is planned, with sites in Canada, the UK, and the US.
Over 75% of lung cancer patients receive radiation therapy. This trial could mark a shift in how it is delivered — combining precision imaging with functional protection. If successful, VITaL could benefit over 10,000 Australians and 1.7 million people globally each year. It may also help reduce lung toxicity in other cancers requiring thoracic radiation.
