Stereotactic radiosurgery for brain and spine metastases

Metastases to the brain and spine are common and difficult to treat. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive treatment option for some individuals, and may obviate the need for open surgery and/or whole brain radiotherapy. Over the past decade there has been an increased number of patients undergoing SRS for the treatment of metastatic disease, and multiple published studies show favourable results in terms of local disease control. We review the available literature pertaining to the application of SRS for the treatment of brain and spine metastases, together with its limitations and outcomes. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.