Spine radiosurgery for spinal metastases: indications, technique and outcome

Early diagnosis, better imaging, and advanced treatment of cancer patients extend survival and increase the incidence of symptomatic spine metastases. The treatment algorithm for spine metastases has shifted to a more aggressive approach in recent years. Spine stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a relatively new tool utilizing advanced imaging systems, planning software, image-guided localization, and intensity-modulated dose delivery. Radiosurgery of spine metastases yields high rates of pain- and tumor control, and offers both the patients and the treating physicians an effective noninvasive alternative. This review presents the indications and outcomes for SRS and describes current techniques.