Written by Dr. Heinzerling
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) are specialized techniques for treating small tumors in the brain, lung, spine, abdomen, liver, kidney, or bone with highly targeted, high-dose radiation therapy. The distinction between the two techniques lies in the number of treatments and the location of the body being treated. SRS typically involves a single treatment or “fraction” of radiation and is often directed towards the brain or spine. SBRT typically involves more than one fraction of radiation and may be targeted to other areas of the body like the lung or abdomen. These techniques may also be referred to as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). These treatments utilize precisely delivered radiation beams to treat very specific areas.
Since the treatment is so precise, stereotactic techniques allow oncologists to better spare surrounding normal tissues than with conventional external beam therapy. Stereotactic radiotherapy also requires fewer sessions than other traditional radiation therapies.
The physicians of SERO were some of the earliest adopters of this advanced technology, so we are experts on the science behind and application of SRS and SBRT. As you consider your next steps in cancer treatment, your SERO cancer care team is here to answer any questions you may have about the techniques.
This page will help you to understand and navigate SRS or SBRT as a treatment option.