[Stereotactic radiation therapy with a modified linear accelerator in patients with brain metastases]

The aim of the study was to analyze the results of stereotactic radiotherapy using a linear accelerator in patients with brain metastases. We quantified the following clinical parameters: tumor response and tumor control after therapy, survival, and side effects. Results of the treatment were compared with those from traditional treatment strategies such as surgery and whole brain irradiation. Sixty patients with brain metastases (80 lesions, 36 men and 24 women, mean age 57 years) were treated with stereotactic radiotherapy. The mean follow-up time was 13 months.Stereotactic radiotherapy is an important option in the treatment strategy for patients with brain metastases. In comparison to whole brain irradiation, stereotactic radiotherapy achieved a higher local tumor control with a lower rate of side effects. In comparison to surgery, stereotactic radiotherapy has the advantages of shorter treatment time and lower treatment-related morbidity and mortality.