The impact of repeat stereotactic radiosurgery on the management of brain metastasis with maintaining brain function

We investigated the utility of repeat stereotactic radiosurgery (RSRS), assisted with a careful monitoring by MRI, in the management of brain metastases. Thirty-seven patients harboring brain metastasis received RSRS. RSRS at the same site was performed in 14. The cumulative 5-year survival rate was 29% and the median survival time was 32 months. Cause of death was as follows: 14 uncontrolled extracranial disease and 2 progressed brain metastases. There were no severe adverse events. For 16 patients, neurocognitive function was examined and the most recent results revealed that 88% was not associated with impaired neurocognition. RSRS appears a preferred option to manage brain metastases with maintaining brain function. (author)