[Lung cancer: Stereotactic body radiation therapy and surgery]

Stereotactic body radiation therapy for lung cancer is now well established for patients who are not eligible to surgery. These patients can benefit from a curative treatment, which is a new therapeutic indication. Protocols are effective and well tolerated even for the most fragile patients. Three randomized trials comparing stereotactic body radiation therapy and surgery failed due to poor accrual. However, taking into account the favourable available data, the choice of stereotactic body radiation therapy in first intention arises. The treatment decision has to be discussed in a multidisciplinary way, while considering the opinion of the patient, who must be clearly informed about the principle of both therapeutic options.