Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT), also known as Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR), is a highly precise and targeted form of radiation therapy used to treat tumors in various parts of the body, particularly those located outside the brain. SBRT delivers very high doses of radiation to the tumor in a limited number of treatment sessions.

Here are some key points about Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT):

1. High Dose, Fewer Sessions: SBRT delivers a concentrated and highly effective dose of radiation to the tumor over a small number of treatment sessions, often ranging from 1 to 5 sessions.
2. Precise Targeting: Similar to other stereotactic techniques, SBRT uses advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans, MRI and/or PET scans to precisely locate and map the tumor’s position in real-time. We generally use at least two imaging modalities which are fused with each other for best results.
3. Motion Management: SBRT employs techniques to account for patient movement, including techniques to track and adjust for breathing motion. This is particularly important for tumors located in areas prone to movement, like the lungs. Four-Dimensional CT scan helps create Maximum intensity projection (MIP) and Average Intensity Projection (AIP) for motion encompassing plan. Deep Inspiratory Breath Hold (DIBH) is done for fixing the tumor in a particular position. DIBH helps in SBRT by fixing the tumors and helping us focus high doses of radiation without causing unintended damage to surrounding normal tissue (like normal liver/lung)
4. Minimizes Damage to Surrounding Tissues: By delivering a highly focused dose of radiation, SBRT helps to spare surrounding healthy tissues from unnecessary exposure.
5. Applicability to Various Tumor Types: SBRT is used to treat a wide range of tumors, including primary tumors and metastatic lesions. It’s often applied to cancers of the lung, liver, pancreas, kidney, prostate, and most bone metastases.
6. Multi-Disciplinary Approach: SBRT involves collaboration among radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiation therapists, and other specialists to plan and administer the treatment.
7. Suitability Assessment: The decision to use SBRT is based on factors such as tumor size, location, and proximity to critical structures, as well as the patient’s overall health and ability to tolerate the treatment.
8. Minimal Disruption to Daily Life: Because SBRT requires fewer treatment sessions compared to conventional radiation therapy, it may be a more convenient option for patients who may have difficulty attending daily treatment sessions.
9. Potential Side Effects: While SBRT is generally well-tolerated, it can still cause side effects, which vary depending on the location of the tumor being treated. These effects are carefully monitored and managed by the medical team.
10. Follow-Up and Monitoring: Patients who undergo SBRT are typically monitored closely through regular follow-up appointments and imaging studies to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and watch for any potential recurrence.

SBRT is considered a powerful tool in the arsenal against cancer, providing a highly effective treatment option for select patients with localized tumors. The decision to use SBRT is made by the treating physicians based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s individual case.