Name of the Procedure:

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

Summary

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that delivers high doses of radiation to one or more lesions in the body. The entire course of treatment typically does not exceed five sessions. SBRT uses advanced imaging techniques to target tumors with pinpoint accuracy, sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.

Purpose

SBRT is used to treat certain types of cancer and other medical conditions where tumors or lesions are present. The goal is to destroy the tumor cells while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Expected outcomes include controlling tumor growth, reducing symptoms, and potentially curing the cancer in specific cases.

Indications

SBRT is indicated for:

• Small to medium-sized tumors located outside the brain, such as in the lungs, liver, spine, or other organs.
• Patients who cannot undergo surgery due to medical conditions or who prefer a non-surgical option.
• Recurrence of cancer or metastases (spread of cancer) that are limited in number and location.

Preparation

• Patients might need to fast for a few hours before the treatment session.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially if the patient is taking blood thinners or other critical medications.
• Imaging scans such as CT, MRI, or PET may be conducted for precise treatment planning.
• Patients will be fitted with a custom mold or body frame to keep them still during the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned using the custom mold or body frame.
2. Advanced imaging techniques, such as CT or MRI, guide precise targeting of the radiation beams.
3. The patient must remain still while the linear accelerator or other radiation delivery device moves around them to deliver radiation from different angles.
4. Each session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
5. Sedation is not usually required, but mild sedatives or pain relief may be provided if needed.

Duration

The entire SBRT course is usually completed within one to two weeks, with the total number of treatment sessions not exceeding five.

Setting

SBRT is performed in a radiation oncology department within a hospital or an outpatient clinic equipped with specialized radiation equipment.

Personnel

• Radiation Oncologist
• Medical Physicist
• Radiation Therapist
• Oncology Nurse
• Sometimes, a dosimetrist for calculating the exact radiation dose.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks include fatigue, skin redness, and localized pain in the treatment area.
• Rare complications may involve damage to nearby organs or tissues, radiation pneumonitis (lung inflammation), or other long-term side effects depending on the treated area.
• Healthcare providers will monitor and manage any side effects or complications.

Benefits

• High precision minimizes damage to healthy tissue.
• Shorter treatment duration compared to conventional radiation therapy.
• Potentially curative in some cases, especially with early-stage tumors.
• Effective symptom relief and control of tumor growth.

Recovery

• Minimal downtime, with most patients able to resume normal activities quickly.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor response and manage any side effects.
• Instructions may include managing skin care at the treatment site and watching for specific symptoms.

Alternatives

• Surgery, which can be more invasive but may offer immediate tumor removal.
• Conventional radiation therapy, which involves more sessions over several weeks.
• Chemotherapy, either alone or in combination with other treatments.
• Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as varying recovery times, effectiveness, and side effects profiles.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a sensation of warmth or slight discomfort during the procedure.
• Most report minimal discomfort post-treatment, though fatigue and skin changes are possible.
• Pain management options are available if needed to ensure comfort during and after the procedure.