About Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy, Method, and Ideal Patients

A therapeutic radiology specialist and MD graduate from the University of Florida College of Medicine, Dr. Alan Porter draws on over four decades of medical experience. Dr. Alan H. Porter is interested in the newest and latest developments of the radiology field, including tomotherapy and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT).

An innovative radiotherapy, SBRT aims to destroy tumors in any part of the body except the brain. Precisely, targeted laser beams and advanced imaging techniques map and shrink a tumor. In contrast to several weeks of conventional radiation therapy, SBRT typically requires 3–5 treatments in less than two weeks because radiation doses are higher and exact.

SBRT is efficient for localized tumors measuring 6 to 7 cm. Bile duct, kidney, and pelvic tumors are candidates. Pancreatic and metastatic tumors are others. Since this is a non-invasive procedure, patients who cannot handle surgery may qualify, too. Ultimately, a patient’s doctor and oncology specialist make the referral.