Published online May 15, 2019. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v11.i5.367
Peer-review started: January 17, 2019
First decision: January 26, 2019
Revised: March 14, 2019
Accepted: March 27, 2019
Article in press: March 28, 2019
Published online: May 15, 2019
Processing time: 120 Days and 0.4 Hours
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is an emerging treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. This technique results in excellent local control rates with favorable toxicity profile despite being predominantly used in heavily pretreated patients or those unsuitable for other local therapies. SBRT may be used as a sole treatment or in combination with other local therapies as well as a bridging strategy for patient awaiting liver transplants. This brief review describes current practice of SBRT with respect to radiation technique, patient selection and treatment concepts. It summarizes available evidence from retro- and prospective studies evaluating SBRT alone, SBRT in combination with other treatments and SBRT compared to other local treatment approaches.
Core tip: Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is an emerging treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. It may be used as a sole treatment or in combination with other local therapies as well as a bridging strategy for patient awaiting transplants and results in excellent local control rates with low toxicity. This mini-review describes current concepts of SBRT and summarizes the available evidence evaluating SBRT alone, SBRT in combination with other treatments and SBRT compared to other local treatment approaches.