Main description:

Written by internationally known experts in the field, Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy examines one of the fastest-developing subspecialties within radiation oncology. These procedures deliver large doses of radiation in one to five sessions to a precisely determined target. Often these techniques have proven to be as or more effective than traditional radiation therapy techniques, while at the same time being cost-efficient and convenient for the patient.

These techniques, however, require careful planning, specialized equipment, and well-trained staff. This volume provides a cutting-edge look at the biological and technical underpinnings of SRS and SBRT techniques. It includes a history of the development of SRS and SBRT; clinical applications of the techniques; dedicated devices for delivering precisely shaped, high doses of radiation; use of in-room imaging for treatment planning and treatment guidance; immobilization techniques for accurate targeting; and future developments that will continue to evolve and refine existing techniques.

A valuable introduction to those just learning about these specialized techniques, and an ideal reference for those who are already implementing them, this book covers a wide variety of topics, with clear discussions of each aspect of the technology employed.

Contents:

Early History of Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Historic Development of Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy. Stereotactic Radiation Therapy Delivery Systems. Gamma Knife. Conventional Medical Linear Accelerators Adapted for Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Dedicated Linear Accelerators for Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Light Ion Beam Programs for Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Small Animal Irradiators for Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Stereotactic Radiation Therapy, Precision Patient Positioning, and Immobilization. Developing Stereotactic Frames for Cranial Treatment. Frames for Extracranial Treatment. Motion Management. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy and Frameless Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Stereotactic Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning and Dosimetry. Stereotactic Treatment Planning. Small-Field Dosimetry for Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Radiotherapy. New Directions in Stereotactic Radiation Therapy. Radiation Biology of Stereotactic Radiotherapy. Clinical Outcomes Using Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy and Stereotactic Radiosurgery. The Future of Stereotactic Radiosurgery. Index.