Image-Guided Hypofractionated Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Book excerpt: Following recent developments in hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) for brain and spine tumors, this new edition offers a fully updated and comprehensive "how-to" guidance on hypofractionated SRT for brain and spine metastases, glioma, benign tumors, and other tumor types. Presenting the state of the art of the technology and practice, this book: • Discusses the pros and cons of hypofractionated SRT compared to single-fraction radiosurgery, providing a deeper understanding of radiosurgery and radiobiology • Explains the toxicity and adverse effects of hypofractionated SRT including the dosage of 24 Gy in two spine SBRT fractionation schemes, aiding practitioners in communicating the risks and benefits of treatment and in obtaining consent from their patients • Outlines the current standards for safe practice, including checklists for implementation • Explores new technologies for brain and spine tumors including LITT, MR-guided focused ultrasound, and Zap technology, with chapters authored by well-recognized experts in the radiation, oncology, and neurosurgery communities; this book delivers a level of technological and clinical detail not available in journal papers This book is suitable for radiation oncologists, neurosurgeons, and medical physicists who specialize in brain and/or spine radiosurgery or want to start a program and need a comprehensive reference with key checklists for practice.