Predictors of radiation pneumonitis after postoperative radiotherapy in completely resected pathologic stage III-N2 non-small cell lung cancer: a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients undergoing postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) after lung resection present a unique challenge due to anatomical changes and reduced baseline lung capacity. Standard dosimetric constraints established for intact lungs may not be applicable. This study aims to identify key risk factors and develop a model for predicting grade ≥ 2 (G2+) radiation pneumonitis (RP) through a secondary analysis of a prospectively collected cohort of NSCLC patients treated with PORT following lobectomy or sleeve resection.