Second course of stereotactic radiosurgery for locally recurrent brain metastases: Safety and efficacy

Surgically targeted radiation therapy versus stereotactic radiation therapy: A dosimetric comparison for brain metastasis resection cavities

PURPOSE

Surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) with Cesium-131 seeds embedded in a collagen tile is a promising treatment for recurrent brain metastasis. In this study, the biological effective doses (BED) for normal and target tissues from STaRT plans were compared with those of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) modalities.

METHODS

Nine patients (n = 9) with 12 resection cavities (RCs) who underwent STaRT (cumulative physical dose of 60 Gy to a depth of 5 mm from the RC edge) were replanned with CyberKnifeⓇ (CK), Gamma KnifeⓇ (GK), and intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) using an SRT approach (30 Gy in 5 fractions). Statistical significance comparing D95% and D90% in BED10Gy (BED10Gy95% and BED10Gy90%) and to RC + 0 to + 5 mm expansion margins, and parameters associated with radiation necrosis risk (V83Gy, V103Gy, V123Gy and V243Gy) to the normal brain were evaluated by a Wilcoxon-signed rank test.

RESULTS

For RC + 0 mm, median BED10Gy 90% for STaRT (90.1 Gy10, range: 64.1-140.9 Gy10) was significantly higher than CK (74.3 Gy10, range:59.3-80.4 Gy10, p = 0.04), GK (69.4 Gy10, range: 59.8-77.1 Gy10, p = 0.005), and IMPT (49.3 Gy10, range: 49.0-49.7 Gy10, p = 0.003), respectively. However, for the RC + 5 mm, the median BED10Gy 90% for STaRT (34.1 Gy10, range: 22.2-59.7 Gy10) was significantly lower than CK (44.3 Gy10, range: 37.8-52.4 Gy10), and IMPT (46.6 Gy10, range: 45.1-48.5 Gy10), respectively, but not significantly different from GK (34.1 Gy10, range: 22.8-47.0 Gy10). The median V243Gy was significantly higher in CK (11.7 cc, range: 4.7-20.1 cc), GK(6.2 cc, range: 2.3-11.9 cc) and IMPT (19.9 cc, range: 11.1-36.6 cc) compared to STaRT (1.1 cc, range: 0.0-7.8 cc) (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This comparative analysis suggests a STaRT approach may treat recurrent brain tumors effectively via delivery of higher radiation doses with equivalent or greater BED up to at least 3 mm from the RC edge as compared to EBRT approaches.

Successful treatment of medically and surgically refractory lymphocytic hypophysitis with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy: a single-center experience and systematic literature review

PURPOSE

To explore the potential role of focused radiotherapy in managing the lymphocytic hypophysitis (LH) refractory to medical therapy and surgery.

METHOD

A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify the studies on radiation treatment for hypophysitis, along with the experience in our institution.

RESULTS

The study included eight patients, three from our institution and five from existing literature. The age at presentation ranged from 37 to 75 years old, with a median age of 58. The presenting symptoms involved headache in seven patients and diplopia in two patients. Pre-radiation visual field defects were noticed in four patients. All patients exhibited variable degrees of hypopituitarism before radiation, with oral corticosteroids being the initial medical treatment. Immunosuppressive therapy was attempted in two patients prior to radiation. Seven patients had a history of transsphenoidal surgery with a histologically confirmed LH. Three patients underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), while the remaining received FSRT, with a mean irradiation volume of 2.2 cm3. A single-session total dose of 12 -15 Gy was administered in the SRS group. In the FSRT group, doses ranged from 24 to 30 Gy with a median dose of 25 Gy, delivered in 2 Gy fractions. Four patients achieved a resolution of visual field defects, while another two patients demonstrated improvement in their associated focal neurologic deficits. No change in pre-existing endocrine status was shown after radiation, except in one patient. Clinical response was achieved in seven patients after a single course of radiation, while one patient required the second course. Six patients remained stable on low-dose glucocorticoid during at least a 12-month follow-up period, and one discontinued it entirely without experiencing relapse. Three patients demonstrated a complete radiologic response, while the remaining showed a partial radiologic response.

CONCLUSIONS

Focused radiation, including FSRT, can play a role in symptomatic relief, effective mass shrinkage, and minimizing radiation exposure to critical surrounding structures in patients with refractory LH. However, further research efforts are necessary to better clarify its effects and optimal dose planning.

Surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) for recurrent brain metastases: Initial clinical experience

PURPOSE

This study evaluates the outcomes of recurrent brain metastasis treated with resection and brachytherapy using a novel Cesium-131 carrier, termed surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT), and compares them to the first course of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent STaRT between August 2020 and June 2022 were included. All patients underwent maximal safe resection with pathologic confirmation of viable disease prior to STaRT to 60 Gy to a 5-mm depth from the surface of the resection cavity. Complications were assessed using CTCAE version 5.0.

RESULTS

Ten patients with 12 recurrent brain metastases after EBRT (median 15.5 months, range: 4.9-44.7) met the inclusion criteria. The median BED10Gy90% and 95% were 132.2 Gy (113.9-265.1 Gy) and 116.0 Gy (96.8-250.6 Gy), respectively. The median maximum point dose BED10Gy for the target was 1076.0 Gy (range: 120.7-1478.3 Gy). The 6-month and 1-year local control rates were 66.7% and 33.3% for the prior EBRT course; these rates were 100% and 100% for STaRT, respectively (p < 0.001). At a median follow-up of 14.5 months, there was one instance of grade two radiation necrosis. Surgery-attributed complications were observed in two patients including pseudomeningocele and minor headache.

CONCLUSIONS

STaRT with Cs-131 presents an alternative approach for operable recurrent brain metastases and was associated with superior local control than the first course of EBRT in this series. Our initial clinical experience shows that STaRT is associated with a high local control rate, modest surgical complication rate, and low radiation necrosis risk in the reirradiation setting.

Impact of multidisciplinary team on the pattern of care for brain metastasis from breast cancer

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore how a multidisciplinary team (MDT) affects patterns of local or systematic treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of consecutive patients in the breast cancer with brain metastases (BCBM) database at our institution from January 2011 to April 2021. The patients were divided into an MDT group and a non-MDT group.

Results

A total of 208 patients were analyzed, including 104 each in the MDT and non-MDT groups. After MDT, 56 patients (53.8%) were found to have intracranial "diagnosis upgrade". In the matched population, patients in the MDT group recorded a higher proportion of meningeal metastases (14.4% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.02), symptomatic tumor progression (11.5% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.04), and an increased number of occurrences of brain metastases (BM) progression (p < 0.05). Attending MDT was an independent factor associated with ≥2 courses of intracranial radiotherapy (RT) [odds ratio (OR) 5.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.7-10.9, p < 0.001], novel RT technique use (7.0, 95% CI 3.5-14.0, p < 0.001), and prospective clinical research (OR 5.7, 95% CI 2.4-13.4, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with complex conditions are often referred for MDT discussions. An MDT may improve the qualities of intracranial RT and systemic therapy, resulting in benefits of overall survival for BC patients after BM. This encourages the idea that treatment recommendations for patients with BMBC should be discussed within an MDT.

Opportunities and Alternatives of Modern Radiation Oncology and Surgery for the Management of Resectable Brain Metastases

Postsurgical radiotherapy (RT) has been early proven to prevent local tumor recurrence, initially performed with whole brain RT (WBRT). Subsequent to disadvantageous cognitive sequalae for the patient and the broad distribution of modern linear accelerators, focal irradiation of the tumor has omitted WBRT in most cases. In many studies, the effectiveness of local RT of the resection cavity, either as single-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or hypo-fractionated stereotactic RT (hFSRT), has been demonstrated to be effective and safe. However, whereas prospective high-level incidence is still lacking on which dose and fractionation scheme is the best choice for the patient, further ablative techniques have come into play. Neoadjuvant SRS (N-SRS) prior to resection combines straightforward target delineation with an accelerated post-surgical phase, allowing an earlier start of systemic treatment or rehabilitation as indicated. In addition, low-energy intraoperative RT (IORT) on the surgical bed has been introduced as another alternative to external beam RT, offering sterilization of the cavity surface with steep dose gradients towards the healthy brain. This consensus paper summarizes current local treatment strategies for resectable brain metastases regarding available data and patient-centered decision-making.

Re-irradiation combined with bevacizumab for recurrent glioblastoma beyond bevacizumab failure: survival outcomes and prognostic factors

The combination of re-irradiation and bevacizumab has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for patients experiencing their first glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) recurrence. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the re-irradiation and bevacizumab combination in treating second-progression GBM patients who are resistant to bevacizumab monotherapy. This retrospective study enrolled 64 patients who developed a second progression after single-agent bevacizumab therapy. The patients were divided into two groups: 35 underwent best supportive care (none-ReRT group), and 29 received bevacizumab and re-irradiation (ReRT group). The study measured the overall survival time after bevacizumab failure (OST-BF) and re-irradiation (OST-RT). Statistical tests were used to compare categorical variables, evaluate the difference in recurrence patterns between the two groups, and identify optimal cutoff points for re-irradiation volume. The results of the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that the re-irradiation (ReRT) group experienced a significantly higher survival rate and longer median survival time than the non-ReRT group. The median OST-BF and OST-RT were 14.5 months and 8.8 months, respectively, for the ReRT group, while the OST-BF for the none-ReRT group was 3.9 months (p < 0.001). The multivariable analysis identified the re-irradiation target volume as a significant factor for OST-RT. Moreover, the re-irradiation target volume exhibited excellent discriminatory ability in the area under the curve (AUC) analysis, with an optimal cutoff point of greater than 27.58 ml. These findings suggest that incorporating re-irradiation with bevacizumab therapy may be a promising treatment strategy for patients with recurrent GBM resistant to bevacizumab monotherapy. The re-irradiation target volume may serve as a valuable selection factor in determining which patients with recurrent GBM are likely to benefit from the combined re-irradiation and bevacizumab treatment modality.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery as Treatment for Brain Metastases: An Update

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a mainstay treatment option for brain metastasis (BM). While guidelines for SRS use have been outlined by professional societies, consideration of these guidelines should be weighed in the context of emerging literature, novel technology platforms, and contemporary treatment paradigms. Here, we review recent advances in prognostic scale development for SRS-treated BM patients and survival outcomes as a function of the number of BM and cumulative intracranial tumor volume. Focus is placed on the role of stereotactic laser thermal ablation in the management of BM that recur after SRS and the management of radiation necrosis. Neoadjuvant SRS prior to surgical resection as a means of minimizing leptomeningeal spread is also discussed.

How Stereotactic Radiotherapy Changed the Landscape in Cancer Care

The term “stereotactic body radiotherapy” (SBRT) refers to high-precision radiotherapy techniques using numerous beams converging in a small target volume, allowing the delivery of high doses per fraction (>6–7 Gy) in a very few number of fractions [...]

Management of initial and recurrent radiation-induced contrast enhancements following radiotherapy for brain metastases: Clinical and radiological impact of bevacizumab and corticosteroids

Purpose

The appearance of radiation-induced contrast enhancements (RICE) after radiotherapy for brain metastases can go along with severe neurological impairments. The aim of our analysis was to evaluate radiological changes, the course and recurrence of RICE and identify associated prognostic factors.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients diagnosed with brain metastases, who were treated with radiotherapy and subsequently developed RICE. Patient demographic and clinical data, radiation-, cancer-, and RICE-treatment, radiological results, and oncological outcomes were reviewed in detail.

Results

A total of 95 patients with a median follow-up of 28.8 months were identified. RICE appeared after a median time of 8.0 months after first radiotherapy and 6.4 months after re-irradiation. Bevacizumab in combination with corticosteroids achieved an improvement of clinical symptoms and imaging features in 65.9% and 75.6% of cases, respectively, both significantly superior compared to treatment with corticosteroids only, and further significantly prolonged RICE-progression-free survival to a median of 5.6 months. Recurrence of RICE after initially improved or stable imaging occurred in 63.1% of cases, significantly more often in patients after re-irradiation and was associated with high mortality of 36.6% after the diagnosis of flare-up. Response of recurrence significantly depended on the applied treatment and multiple courses of bevacizumab achieved good response.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that bevacizumab in combination with corticosteroids is superior in achieving short-term imaging and symptom improvement of RICE and prolongs the progression-free time compared to corticosteroids alone. Long-term RICE flare-up rates after bevacizumab discontinuation are high, but repeated treatments achieved effective symptomatic control.

Adverse radiation effect and freedom from progression following repeat stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases

OBJECTIVE

The authors previously evaluated risk and time course of adverse radiation effects (AREs) following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases, excluding lesions treated after prior SRS. In the present analysis they focus specifically on single-fraction salvage SRS to brain metastases previously treated with SRS or hypofractionated SRS (HFSRS), evaluating freedom from progression (FFP) and the risk and time course of AREs.

METHODS

Brain metastases treated from September 1998 to May 2019 with single-fraction SRS after prior SRS or HFSRS were analyzed. Serial follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and surgical pathology reports were reviewed to score local treatment failure and AREs. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate FFP and risk of ARE measured from the date of repeat SRS with censoring at the last brain MRI.

RESULTS

A total of 229 retreated brain metastases in 124 patients were evaluable. The most common primary cancers were breast, lung, and melanoma. The median interval from prior SRS/HFSRS to repeat SRS was 15.4 months, the median prescription dose was 18 Gy, and the median duration of follow-up imaging was 14.5 months. At 1 year after repeat SRS, FFP was 80% and the risk of symptomatic ARE was 11%. The 1-year risk of imaging changes, including asymptomatic RE and symptomatic ARE, was 30%. Among lesions that demonstrated RE, the median time to onset was 6.7 months (IQR 4.7-9.9 months) and the median time to peak imaging changes was 10.1 months (IQR 5.6-13.6 months). Lesion size by quadratic mean diameter (QMD) showed similar results for QMDs ranging from 0.75 to 2.0 cm (1-year FFP 82%, 1-year risk of symptomatic ARE 11%). For QMD < 0.75 cm, the 1-year FFP was 86% and the 1-year risk of symptomatic ARE was only 2%. Outcomes were worse for QMDs 2.01-3.0 cm (1-year FFP 65%, 1-year risk of symptomatic ARE 24%). The risk of symptomatic ARE was not increased with tyrosine kinase inhibitors or immunotherapy before or after repeat SRS.

CONCLUSIONS

RE on imaging was common after repeat SRS (30% at 1 year), but the risk of a symptomatic ARE was much less (11% at 1 year). The results of repeat single-fraction SRS were good for brain metastases ≤ 2 cm. The authors recommend an interval ≥ 6 months from prior SRS and a prescription dose ≥ 18 Gy. Alternatives such as HFSRS, laser interstitial thermal therapy, or resection with adjuvant radiation should be considered for recurrent brain metastases > 2 cm.

GammaTile: Comprehensive Review of a Novel Radioactive Intraoperative Seed-Loading Device for the Treatment of Brain Tumors

GammaTile is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-licensed device consisting of four cesium-131 (Cs-131) radiation-emitting seeds in the collagen tile about the postage stamp size. The tiles are utilized to line the brain cavity immediately after tumor resection. GammaTile therapy is a surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) that helps provide instant, dose-intense treatment after the completion of resection. The objective of this study is to explore the safety and efficacy of GammaTile surgically targeted radiation therapy for brain tumors. This study also reviews the differences between GammaTile surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) and other traditional treatment options for brain tumors. The electronic database searches utilized in this study include PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. A total of 4,150 articles were identified based on the search strategy. Out of these articles, 900 articles were retrieved. A total of 650 articles were excluded for various reasons, thus retrieving 250 citations. We applied the exclusion and inclusion criteria to these retrieved articles by screening their full text and excluding 180 articles. Therefore, 70 citations were retrieved and included in this comprehensive literature review, as outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) diagram. Based on the findings of this study, GammaTile surgically targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) is safe and effective for treating brain tumors. Similarly, the findings have also shown that the efficacy of GammaTile therapy can be enhanced by combining it with other standard-of-care treatment options/external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Also, the results show that patients diagnosed with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) exhibit poor median overall survival because of the possibility of the tumor returning. Therefore, combining STaRT with other standard-of-care treatment options/EBRT can improve the patient's overall survival (OS). GammaTile therapy enhances access to care, guarantees 100% compliance, and eliminates patients' need to travel regularly to hospitals for radiation treatments. Its implementation requires collaboration from various specialties, such as radiation oncology, medical physics, and neurosurgery.

Salvage resection plus cesium-131 brachytherapy durably controls post-SRS recurrent brain metastases

BACKGROUND

Salvage of recurrent previously irradiated brain metastases (rBrM) is a significant challenge. Resection without adjuvant re-irradiation is associated with a high local failure rate, while reirradiation only partially reduces failure but is associated with greater radiation necrosis risk. Salvage resection plus Cs131 brachytherapy may offer dosimetric and biologic advantages including improved local control versus observation, with reduced normal brain dose versus re-irradiation, however data are limited.

METHODS

A prospective registry of consecutive patients with post-stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) rBrM undergoing resection plus implantation of collagen-matrix embedded Cs131 seeds (GammaTile, GT Medical Technologies) prescribed to 60 Gy at 5 mm from the cavity was analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty patients underwent 24 operations with Cs131 implantation in 25 tumor cavities. Median maximum preoperative diameter was 3.0 cm (range 1.1-6.3). Gross- or near-total resection was achieved in 80% of lesions. A median of 16 Cs131 seeds (range 6-30), with a median air-kerma strength of 3.5 U/seed were implanted. There was one postoperative wound dehiscence. With median follow-up of 1.6 years for survivors, two tumors recurred (one in-field, one marginal) resulting in 8.4% 1-year progression incidence (95%CI = 0.0-19.9). Radiographic seed settling was identified in 7/25 cavities (28%) 1.9-11.7 months post-implantation, with 1 case of distant migration (4%), without clinical sequelae. There were 8 cases of radiation necrosis, of which 4 were symptomatic.

CONCLUSIONS

With > 1.5 years of follow-up, intraoperative brachytherapy with commercially available Cs131 implants was associated with favorable local control and toxicity profiles. Weak correlation between preoperative tumor geometry and implanted tiles highlights a need to optimize planning criteria.

Salvage brachytherapy for multiply recurrent metastatic brain tumors: a matched-case analysis

Background

Patients with recurrent brain metastases who have exhausted external radiation options pose a treatment challenge in the setting of advances in systemic disease control which have improved quality of life and survival. Brachytherapy holds promise as salvage therapy given its ability to enforce surgical cytoreduction and minimize regional toxicity. This study investigates the role of salvage brachytherapy in maintaining local control for recurrent metastatic lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our institution’s experience with brachytherapy in patients with multiply recurrent cerebral metastases who have exhausted external radiation treatment options (14 cases). The primary outcome of the study was freedom from local recurrence (FFLR). To capture the nuances of tumor biology, we compared FFLR achieved by brachytherapy to the preceding treatment for each patient. We further compared the response to brachytherapy in patients with lung cancer (8 cases) against a matched cohort of maximally radiated lung brain metastases (10 cases).

Results

Brachytherapy treatment conferred significantly longer FFLR compared to prior treatments (median 7.39 vs 5.51 months, P = .011) for multiply recurrent brain metastases. Compared to an independent matched cohort, brachytherapy demonstrated superior FFLR (median 8.49 vs 1.61 months, P = .004) and longer median overall survival (11.07 vs 5.93 months, P = .055), with comparable side effects.

Conclusion

Brachytherapy used as salvage treatment for select patients with a multiply recurrent oligometastatic brain metastasis in the setting of well-controlled systemic disease holds promise for improving local control in this challenging patient population.

Stereotactic Laser Ablation (SLA) followed by consolidation stereotactic radiosurgery (cSRS) as treatment for brain metastasis that recurred locally after initial radiosurgery (BMRS): a multi-institutional experience

INTRODUCTION

The optimal treatment paradigm for brain metastasis that recurs locally after initial radiosurgery remains an area of active investigation. Here, we report outcomes for patients with BMRS treated with stereotactic laser ablation (SLA, also known as laser interstitial thermal therapy, LITT) followed by consolidation radiosurgery.

METHODS

Clinical outcomes of 20 patients with 21 histologically confirmed BMRS treated with SLA followed by consolidation SRS and > 6 months follow-up were collected retrospectively across three participating institutions.

RESULTS

Consolidation SRS (5 Gy × 5 or 6 Gy × 5) was carried out 16-73 days (median of 26 days) post-SLA in patients with BMRS. There were no new neurological deficits after SLA/cSRS. While 3/21 (14.3%) patients suffered temporary Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) decline after SLA, no KPS decline was observed after cSRS. There were no 30-day mortalities or wound complications. Two patients required re-admission within 30 days of cSRS (severe headache that resolved with steroid therapy (n = 1) and new onset seizure (n = 1)). With a median follow-up of 228 days (range: 178-1367 days), the local control rate at 6 and 12 months (LC₆, LC₁₂) was 100%. All showed diminished FLAIR volume surrounding the SLA/cSRS treated BMRS at the six-month follow-up; none of the patients required steroid for symptoms attributable to these BMRS. These results compare favorably to the available literature for repeat SRS or SLA-only treatment of BMRS.

CONCLUSIONS

This multi-institutional experience supports further investigations of SLA/cSRS as a treatment strategy for BMRS.

Repeat stereotactic radiosurgery for locally recurrent brain metastases previously treated with stereotactic radiosurgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety

Objectives

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes for patients with locally recurrent brain metastases treated with a repeat course of stereotactic radiosurgery (rSRS).

Method

Primary outcomes were 1-year local control(LC) and radionecrosis (RN). Secondary outcomes were 1-year overall survival (OS) and 1-year distant brain control (DBC). Weighted random effects meta-analyses utilizing the DerSimonian and Laird methods were conducted to characterize summary effect sizes. Mixed effects regression models were utilized to analyze potential correlations between prognostic factors and outcomes.

Results

In total, 347 patients with 462 brain metastases treated with rSRS were included. Estimated 1-year LC, OS, and DBC rates were 69.0% (95% CI: 61.0-77.0%), 49.7% (95% CI: 28.9-70.6%), and 41.6% (95% CI: 33.0-50.4%), respectively. The estimated RN rate was 16.1% (95% CI: 6.3-25.9%). Every 1 Gy increase in prescription dose was estimated to result in roughly 5% increase in 1-year LC (p = 0.14).

Conclusions

rSRS was well-tolerated with reasonable 1-year LC and OS. Dose escalation may result in improved LC.

Stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases from pelvic gynecological malignancies: oncologic outcomes, validation of prognostic scores, and dosimetric evaluation

INTRODUCTION

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a well-established treatment option in the management of brain metastases. Multiple prognostic scores for prediction of survival following radiotherapy exist, but are not disease-specific or validated for radiosurgery in women with primary pelvic gynecologic malignancies metastatic to the brain. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the feasibility, safety, outcomes, and impact of established prognostic scores.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 52 patients treated with radiotherapy for brain metastases between 2008 and 2021. Stereotactic radiosurgery was utilized in 31 patients for an overall number of 75 lesions; the remaining 21 patients received whole-brain radiotherapy. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and the log-rank test were used to calculate and compare survival curves and univariate and multivariate Cox regression to assess the influence of cofactors on recurrence, local control, and prognosis.

RESULTS

With a median follow-up of 10.7 months, overall survival rates post radiosurgery were 65.3%, 51.3%, and 27.7% for 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively, which were significantly higher than post whole-brain radiotherapy (p=0.049). Five local failures (6.7%) were detected, resulting in 1 and 2 year local cerebral control rates of 97.4% and 94.0%, respectively. Univariate factors for prediction of superior overall survival were high performance status (p=0.030) and application of three prognostic scores, especially the Recursive Partitioning Analysis score (p=0.028). Uni- and multivariate analysis revealed that extracranial progression prior to radiosurgery was significant for inferior overall survival (p<0.0001). Radionecrosis was diagnosed in five women (16%); long-term neurotoxicity was significantly worse after whole-brain radiotherapy compared with radiosurgery (p=0.023).

CONCLUSION

Stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases from pelvic gynecologic malignancies appears to be safe and well tolerated, achieving promising local cerebral control. Prognostic scores were shown to be transferable and radiosurgery should be recommended as primary intracranial treatment, especially in women with no prior extracranial progression and Recursive Partitioning Analysis class I.

Salvage Surgery for Local Control of Brain Metastases After Previous Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A Single-Center Series

BACKGROUND

Although overall survival (OS) has improved in patients with brain metastases (BMs), control of recurrent BMs remains a therapeutic challenge. Salvage surgery may achieve acceptable control rates in the setting of progression after previous stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), yet it remains a question how additional adjuvant therapies may affect outcomes and how patient selection for salvage surgery may be optimized.

METHODS

Patients receiving salvage surgery for BM progression after previous SRS were retrospectively reviewed from a single center. Outcomes of interest included local tumor progression, leptomeningeal dissemination, and OS. Cox proportional hazard models and nominal logistic regression were applied to determine factors associated with outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

A total of 43 patients with 50 BMs were included. After salvage surgery, local progression was observed for 17 BMs (34%), leptomeningeal dissemination was observed in 17 patients (39.5%), and censored median OS was 17.9 months. On multivariate analysis, use of brachytherapy was associated with improved local control (hazard ratio [HR], 0.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04-0.6; P = 0.008). For patients treated with SRS ≥4.5 months before salvage surgery, both brachytherapy (HR, 0.07; 95% CI, 0.01-0.39; P = 0.002) and postoperative adjuvant SRS (HR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.02-1.00; P = 0.05) were associated with improved local control compared with no adjuvant radiation therapy. Presence of extracranial malignancy (HR, 6.70; 95% CI, 2.58-17.42; P < 0.0001) was associated with shorter survival. Graded prognostic assessment underestimated survival in 79.1% of patients, with a mean difference of 18.9 months between graded prognostic assessment-estimated and actual OS.

CONCLUSIONS

In properly selected patients, salvage surgery may be an appropriate therapy for BM progression after previous SRS. Adjuvant brachytherapy and repeat SRS can offer significant benefit for local control with salvage resection.

Re-irradiation of multiple brain metastases using CyberKnife stereotactic radiotherapy: Case report

INTRODUCTION

Brain metastasis (BM) is the commonest adult intracranial malignancy and many patients with brain metastases require two course radiotherapy. Re-irradiation is frequently performed in Radiotherapy (RT) departments for multiple brain metastases.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We present a case of a 55-year-old male patient suffering from brain metastases, who had previously received whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and first CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiotherapy (CKSRT) for metastases, presented with a recurrence of metastasis and new lesions in the brain.

DIAGNOSES

An enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain revealed abnormalities with double-dosing of intravenous contrast that identified >10 lesions scattered in the whole brain.

INTERVENTIONS

Re-irradiation was performed using CKSRT. The patient was treated with 30 Gy in 5 fractions for new lesions and 25 Gy in 5 fractions for lesion that were locally recurrent and close to brainstem lesions.

OUTCOME

The lesions were well-controlled, and the headache of the patient was significantly relieved one month after radiotherapy. The total survival time of the patients was 17 months from the beginning of the Cyberknife treatment.

CONCLUSION

The present case report demonstrates that CyberKnife therapy plays a significant role in the repeated radiotherapy for multiple metastatic brain tumors. CKSRT can be used as a salvage method in recurrent multiple brain metastases.

Reirradiation With Stereotactic Radiosurgery After Local or Marginal Recurrence of Brain Metastases From Previous Radiosurgery

PURPOSE

Brain metastases represent a major indication for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), but further study is needed regarding repeat SRS (SRS2) after local or marginal recurrence after prior SRS (SRS1). We report local tumor control (LC) after SRS2 and identify predictors of radiation necrosis (RN) and symptomatic RN (SRN).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients had biopsy-proven non-small cell lung cancer and at least 1 brain metastasis previously treated with SRS. SRS2 was performed from 2015 to 2020 and required overlap of the prescription isodose lines with those from SRS1. Patients treated with preoperative SRS were excluded. Primary endpoints were LC by Response Assessment in Neuro-oncology criteria, RN, and SRN.

RESULTS

From 8 institutions, 102 patients with 123 treated lesions were included. SRS2 was performed at a median 12 months after SRS1. SRS2 delivered a median 18 Gy (interquartile range [IQR], 16-18) margin dose to the 50% (IQR, 50%-70%) isodose line, maximum dose of 30.5 Gy (IQR, 25.0-36.0), and V12Gy of 3.38 cm³ (IQR, 0.83-7.64). One-year and 2-year LC were 79% and 72%, respectively. Local tumor control was improved with tumor volume ≤1 cm³ (P < .005). There were 25 (20%) cases of RN and 9 (7%) cases of SRN. For SRS1 and SRS2, SRN rates were higher with maximum doses ≥40 Gy or SRS2 V12Gy >9 cm³ (P < .025 for each). SRS1 and SRS2 maximum dose ≥40 Gy was also predictive of increased RN (P < .05 for each). Prior immunotherapy was not predictive of RN or SRN.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat SRS afforded a high rate of local tumor control and a low rate of SRN. At SRS2, V12Gy ≤9 cm³ and maximum dose <40 Gy may reduce the risks of RN and SRN. These results are most applicable to lesions with approximately 1 cm³ volume and 1-year interval between SRS courses.

Efficacy and Safety of a Second Course of Stereotactic Radiation Therapy for Locally Recurrent Brain Metastases: A Systematic Review

Recent advances in cancer treatments have increased overall survival and consequently, local failures (LFs) after stereotactic radiotherapy/radiosurgery (SRS/SRT) have become more frequent. LF following SRS or SRT may be treated with a second course of SRS (SRS2) or SRT (SRT2). However, there is no consensus on whenever to consider reirradiation. A literature search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Analysis included 13 studies: 329 patients (388 metastases) with a SRS2 and 135 patients (161 metastases) with a SRT2. The 1-year local control rate ranged from 46.5% to 88.3%. Factors leading to poorer LC were histology (melanoma) and lack of prior whole-brain radiation therapy, large tumor size and lower dose at SRS2/SRT2, poorer response at first SRS/SRT, poorer performance status, and no controlled extracranial disease. The rate of radionecrosis (RN) ranged from 2% to 36%. Patients who had a large tumor volume, higher dose and higher value of prescription isodose line at SRS2/SRT2, and large overlap between brain volume irradiated at SRS1/SRT1 and SRS2/SRT2 at doses of 18 and 12 Gy had a higher risk of developing RN. Prospective studies involving a larger number of patients are still needed to determine the best management of patients with local recurrence of brain metastases.

Incidence of Intracranial Melanoma Progression in the Setting of Positive Extracranial Response to Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: An Indication for More Frequent Screening in This Population?

Background and objective

The incidence of intracranial metastases from melanoma is on the rise. In this study, we aimed to determine the incidence of intracranial disease progression in patients on BRAF/MEK targeted therapy and immunotherapy in the setting of controlled or improving extracranial disease.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective review that involved patients who underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for intracranial metastatic melanoma between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018. We focused on BRAF/MEK mutation status and dates of treatment with BRAF/MEK targeted therapy, immunotherapy [ipilimumab (Yervoy), nivolumab (Opdivo), or pembrolizumab (Keytruda)], and combination targeted and immunotherapy.

Results

A total of 51 patients were enrolled: 36 males and 15 females. The average age of the patients was 58.6 years, and 26 among them were BRAF mutation-positive. Seventeen had prior surgery with SRS as adjuvant therapy. The other 34 had SRS as primary treatment. Forty-two patients had extracranial disease present at the time of SRS. There were 34 patients treated with targeted and immune therapy. Overall, 16 patients (47.1%) demonstrated controlled or improving extracranial disease, and 18 (52.9%) demonstrated progressing extracranial disease at the time of SRS. In the subgroup analysis, patients treated with BRAF/MEK targeted therapy demonstrated a 75% rate of extracranial disease control. The extracranial disease was controlled in 43.75% of patients on immunotherapy with intracranial progression, while it was controlled in 30% of patients on both BRAF/MEK targeted therapy and immunotherapy with intracranial progression. Sixteen patients (47.1%) developed intracranial metastasis in our study while having a stable systemic disease with BRAF/MEK targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of the two.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, a systemic response to targeted therapy and immunotherapy does not necessarily parallel intracranial protection.

Efficacy of salvage stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) for locally recurrent brain metastases after initial SRT and characteristics of target population

OBJECTIVES

Due to a steadily growing use of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) for treatment of brain metastases (BMs), the in-field failure after an initial stereotaxy is an increasingly frequent problem. Repeat stereotactic radiotherapy (re-SRT) shows encouraging results in terms of local control. However, the evidence on prognostic factors limiting the overall survival (OS) of re-treated patients is scarce. Here, we sought to analyze the patients' and treatment characteristics influencing the survival outcomes after re-SRT.

METHODS

Data of all patients with local failure of initial SRT treated from 2012 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed and cases treated with salvage SRT were analyzed. We analyzed the impact of patients' and treatment characteristics on overall survival after re-SRT by Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression models. Local and distant brain control, cause of death, and radionecrosis rate were also assessed.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients with 55 BMs treated with re-SRT were evaluated. Median OS after re-SRT was 9.2 months and the overall local control was 83.6%. Nine BMs (16.4%) presented local relapse (LR), 12 (21.8%) radionecrosis, while 21 patients (44.7%) developed new BMs. Only absence of extracranial metastases at BMs diagnosis (HR 0.42, CI 95%; 0.18-0.97), extracranial disease progression (HR 2.39, CI 95%; 1.06-5.38) and distant brain failure (HR 3.94, CI 95%; 1.68-9.24) after re-SRT were significantly associated with patients' survival. Extracranial progression following re-SRT was an independent prognosticator of worse OS.

CONCLUSION

Re-SRT after LR presented excellent local control with acceptable RN rate and improved patients' survival, limited mainly by extracranial and distant brain progression.

Laser interstitial thermal therapy as an adjunct therapy in brain tumors: A meta-analysis and comparison with stereotactic radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive procedures are gaining widespread acceptance in difficult-to-access brain tumor treatment. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the preferred choice, however, laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) has emerged as a tumor cytoreduction technique. The present meta-analysis compared current SRS therapy with LITT in brain tumors.

METHODS

A search was performed in Lilacs, PubMed, and Cochrane database. Patient's demographics, tumor location, therapy used, Karnofsky performance status score before treatment, and patient's outcome (median overall survival, progression-free survival, and adverse events) data were extracted from studies. The risk of bias was assessed by Cochrane collaboration tool.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies were included in this meta-analysis. LITT and SRS MOS in brain metastasis patients were 12.8 months' versus 9.8 months (ranges 9.3-16.3 and 8.3-9.8; P = 0.02), respectively. In a combined comparison of adverse effects among LITT versus SRS in brain metastasis, we found 15% reduction in absolute risk difference (-0.16; 95% confidence interval P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

We could not state that LITT treatment is an optimal alternative therapy for difficult-to-access brain tumors due to the lack of systematic data that were reported in our pooled studies. However, our results identified a positive effect in lowering the absolute risk of adverse events compared with SRS therapy. Therefore, randomized trials are encouraged to ascertain LITT role, as upfront or postoperative/post-SRS therapy for brain tumor treatment.

Complex Clinical Decision-Making Process of Re-Irradiation

As patients live longer with their cancer as a result of more effective treatment, recurrences and second malignancies in a previously irradiated field are an increasing challenge. The technical advances that enable high-dose radiation to limited volumes, excluding critical normal tissues, have increased the use of re-irradiation for many tumour sites. Minimising the volume, selecting patients with good performance status, negative metastatic screening and longer disease-free intervals are important principles. Despite this there is a narrow therapeutic window, and careful consideration with open discussion, including the patient, of the probable benefit and the implications of potential toxicities will always be essential. In this overview we evaluate the various radiobiological factors that need to be considered for re-irradiation, tissue recovery and dose tolerances in the setting of re-irradiation and summarise the available literature to guide clinicians in their decision-making for re-irradiation to primary and metastatic site/s of disease.

Stereotactic reirradiation for local failure of brain metastases following previous radiosurgery: Systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Local failure (LF) following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of brain metastases (BM) may be treated with a second course of SRS (SRS2), though this procedure may increase the risk of symptomatic radionecrosis (RN).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted according to PRISMA to identify studies reporting LF, overall survival (OS) and RN rates following SRS2. Meta-analysis was performed to identify predictors of RN.

RESULTS

Analysis included 11 studies (335 patients,389 metastases). Pooled 1-year LF was 24 %(CI95 % 19-30 %): heterogeneity was acceptable (I2 = 21.4 %). Median pooled OS was 14 months (Confidence Interval 95 %, CI95 % 8.8-22.0 months). Cumulative crude RN rate was 13 % (95 %CI 8 %-19 %), with acceptable heterogeneity (I2 = 40.3 %). Subgroup analysis showed higher RN incidence in studies with median patient age ≥59 years (13 % [95 %CI 8 %-19 %] vs 7 %[95 %CI 3 %-12 %], p = 0.004) and lower incidence following prior Whole Brain Radiotherapy (WBRT, 19 %[95 %CI 13 %-25 %] vs 7%[95 %CI 3 %-13 %], p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

SRS2 is an effective strategy for in-site recurrence of BM previously treated with SRS.

Emerging treatment strategies for breast cancer brain metastasis: from translational therapeutics to real-world experience

Systemic therapies for primary breast cancer have made great progress over the past two decades. However, oncologists confront an insidious and particularly difficult problem: in those patients with metastatic breast cancer, up to 50% of human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-positive and 25-40% of triple-negative subtypes, brain metastases (BM) kill most of them. Fortunately, standard- of-care treatments for BM have improved rapidly, with a decline in whole brain radiation therapy and use of fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery as well as targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Meanwhile, advances in fundamental understanding of the basic biological processes of breast cancer BM (BCBM) have led to many novel experimental therapeutic strategies. In this review, we describe the most recent clinical treatment options and emerging experimental therapeutic strategies that have the potential to combat BCBM.

Repeated stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) using a non-coplanar mono-isocenter (HyperArc™) technique versus upfront whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT): a matched-pair analysis

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an effective treatment option for multiple brain metastases (BMs). Modern mono-isocentric techniques allow the delivery of multiple stereotactic courses, in the event of intracranial failure. Nevertheless, limited data on effectiveness and toxicity have been reported in comparison to WBRT. Aim of this retrospective matched-pair analysis was to compare patients affected by limited BMs treated with multiple SRS courses using a mono-isocentric, non-coplanar technique (HyperArc™, Varian Medical System) to upfront WBRT. One hundred and two patients accounting for 677 BMs were treated with HyperArc™. In case of further intracranial progression, 44 treatment courses of 201 metastases in 19 patients, were treated by subsequent HyperArc™ courses. This population was matched with 38 patients treated with WBRT. The median BMs number was 4 (range 2-10) for HyperArc™ and 5 (range 2-10) for WBRT. Overall survival (OS) and toxicity were evaluated. The median follow-up was 9 months (range 3-40 months). The median OS was not reached (range 5-22 months) for HyperArc™ patients and 8 months (range 3-40 months) for WBRT patients, while the 1-year OS was 77% and 34.6% for HyperArc™ and WBRT, respectively (p = 0.001; HR 4.77, 95% CI 1.62-14.00). There was one case of radionecrosis. HyperArc™ is an effective and safe technique for the treatment of multiple BMs. In selected cases of intracranial oligorecurrence, further subsequent courses can be safely delivered with the same technical approach. Moreover, in patients with a limited number of BMs, SRS showed an improved survival outcome when compared to WBRT.

Reirradiation of Recurrent Brain Metastases: Where Do We Stand?

Brain metastases occur in a large portion of patients with cancer. Although advances in radiotherapy have helped to improve survival, they have also raised questions regarding the best modality for retreatment in the context of recurrent disease. The spectrum of treatment options for recurrent intracranial metastatic disease after previous radiotherapy includes salvage stereotactic radiosurgery, whole brain radiotherapy, and brachytherapy. We have comprehensively reviewed the existing data on the efficacy and toxicity of the various reirradiation treatment modalities. We examined the key clinical considerations that guide patient selection, such as dose, tumor size, interval to retreatment, and local control and survival rates.

Second Re-irradiation of Brain Metastases: A Review of Studies Involving Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Due to advances in the systemic and local treatment, e.g., targeted therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and stereotactic radiotherapy, an increasing proportion of patients with brain metastases now survive for several years. However, long-term survival is not synonymous to permanent local control in the brain. Both local and distant brain relapse sometimes necessitate additional radiotherapy to prevent death from neurologic causes. Prescribing more than two courses of radiotherapy to the same target volume or, in this case, brain metastasis, is a controversial approach. The present review summarizes the results of clinical studies, that included patients treated with whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and two courses of stereotactic radiotherapy to the same, locally recurrent metastasis, and with two courses of WBRT and an additional stereotactic radiotherapy.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Neurosurgical Patients: A Historical Review and Current Perspectives

Today, stereotactic radiosurgery is an effective therapy for a variety of intracranial pathology that were treated solely with open neurosurgery in the past. The technique was developed from the combination of therapeutic radiation and stereotactic devices for the precise localization of intracranial targets. Although stereotactic radiosurgery was originally performed as a partnership between neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists, this partnership has weakened in recent years, with some procedures being performed without neurosurgeons. At the same time, neurosurgeons across the United States and Canada have found their stereotactic radiosurgery training during residency inadequate. Although neurosurgeons, residency directors, and department chairs agree that stereotactic radiosurgery education and exposure during neurosurgery training could be improved, a limited number of resources exist for this kind of education. This review describes the history of stereotactic radiosurgery, assesses the state of its use and education today, and provides recommendations for the improvement of neurosurgical education in stereotactic radiosurgery for the future.

Outcomes of Metastatic Brain Lesions Treated with Radioactive Cs-131 Seeds after Surgery: Experience from One Institution

Introduction

Brain metastases are common in patients with advanced systemic cancer and often recur despite treatment with surgical resection and radiotherapy. Whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) have significantly improved local control rates but are limited by complications including neurocognitive deficits and radiation necrosis. These risks can be higher in the re-irradiation setting. Brachytherapy may be an alternative method of additional targeted adjuvant radiotherapy with acceptable rates of toxicity.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all patients undergoing resection for metastatic brain lesions and permanent low-dose rate Cs-131 brachytherapy was performed for one institution over a 10-year period. All patients had previous radiation therapy already and, after surgery, were followed with imaging every three months. Patient demographics, disease characteristics, intracranial disease, peri- and post-operative complications, and outcomes were recorded. The primary outcome of interest was local tumor recurrence at the site of brachytherapy while secondary outcomes included distant disease progression (within the brain) and complications such as radiation necrosis.

Results

During the study period, nine cases of individual patients met inclusion criteria. The median preoperative lesion diameter was 3 cm (0.8–4.1). The median overall survival after surgery and brachytherapy was 10.3 months, after excluding two patients who were lost to follow-up. Six of nine patients had no local recurrence, while three patients had development or progression of distant lesions. No patients experienced acute or delayed complications.

Conclusion

Cs-131 brachytherapy is a promising alternative method for controlling brain metastases after previous radiation interventions and surgical resection. In this case series, there were no incidences of local tumor recurrence or complications such as radiation necrosis.