Brain metastases are the most common intracranial tumors in adults. As survival improves in lung cancer, breast cancer and melanoma, the incidence and long-term management needs of brain metastases rise accordingly. Treatment goals have shifted from survival alone to preserving neurological function and quality of life.
The role of stereotactic radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS, including Gamma Knife and CyberKnife platforms) delivers highly focused radiation to a limited number of small metastases, usually without craniotomy and in a single session or a few fractions. Compared with whole-brain radiotherapy, SRS has less impact on cognitive function and has become an important option for many patients with oligometastatic disease.
Lesion number, maximum diameter, presence of significant edema and location (for example near the brainstem or optic nerve) all affect planning; some patients still need surgery or whole-brain radiotherapy.
Coordination with systemic therapy
Targeted agents and immunotherapy have substantially changed outcomes for patients with driver-gene-positive disease. Sequencing radiotherapy and systemic treatment requires multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussion, balancing intracranial control, blood-brain barrier penetration and the differentiation of radiation necrosis. Regular imaging follow-up after treatment is essential to distinguish tumor progression from radiation change.
Notes for international patients
Bringing complete original imaging (DICOM), pathology and genomic reports helps shorten the evaluation cycle. Seek care immediately for headache, vomiting, limb weakness or seizures. Any treatment may involve contraindications; please consult a qualified physician first.
See partner hospitals for centers equipped with stereotactic radiosurgery, or check the cost estimator for ranges covering imaging and treatment.