Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for the treatment of inoperable stage I non-small cell lung cancer patients

Lung cancer is the most frequent neoplasm in humans. Surgery is considered the best therapeutic approach for stage I non-small lung cell cancer (NSCLC). However, a remarkable amount of patients are considered as inoperable. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has risen as an option for those patients, rendering excellent results in quality of life and survival. We analyzed clinical studies published between 2002 and 2015 which included SBRT as a treatment modality. Our own clinical series was analyzed as well. The patterns of failure following SBRT were investigated, together with the outcomes and the toxicity observed. SBRT has proven to maintain an excellent local control. The analysis showed the tumor size and the histology as determinant factors for the response to treatment. According to the published evidence as well as our own experience, SBRT is a safe and feasible approach for early NSCLC. Its results may be comparable with surgery treatment.