Future Trends in Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery is a discipline that has evolved and continues to evolve. For certain conditions there are increasing indications for its use. Arteriovenous malformations, acoustic neuroma, meningioma, and pituitary adenomas are among the most commonly treated, and the cases where the most experience has been gained. Use will likely expand to other areas, such as metastatic brain tumors, base of skull lesions, and ocular melanomas. Radiosurgery for functional conditions, such as pain control, parkinsonism, or epilepsy may well develop. New equipment and techniques will allow for the expansion of utilization, as will increasing understanding of the radiobiology involved. Increased cooperation between radiation oncologists and neurosurgeons will facilitate the growth of this field because its most effective application requires aspects form both specialties.