Stereotactic body radiation therapy for colorectal liver metastases

Abstract Background Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a treatment option for colorectal liver metastases. Local control, patient survival and toxicity were assessed in an experience of SBRT for colorectal liver metastases. Methods SBRT was delivered with curative intent to 20 consecutively treated patients with colorectal hepatic metastases who were candidates for neither resection nor radiofrequency ablation (RFA). The median number of metastases was 1 (range 1–3) and median size was 2·3 (range 0·7–6·2) cm. Toxicity was scored according to the Common Toxicity Criteria version 3.0. Local control rates were derived on tumour-based analysis. Results Median follow-up was 26 (range 6–57) months. Local failure was observed in nine of 31 lesions after a median interval of 22 (range 12–52) months. Actuarial 2-year local control and survival rates were 74 and 83 per cent respectively. Hepatic toxicity grade 2 or less was reported in 18 patients. Two patients had an episode of hepatic toxicity grade 3. Conclusion SBRT is a treatment option for patients with colorectal liver metastases who are not candidates for resection or RFA.