Spine SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy)
An advanced technique delivering a high, very precise dose to a spine lesion while protecting the spinal cord.
Under physician review
Advanced module
This module explains an advanced technique and may not apply to every patient.
Why radiotherapy is used
- Spine stereotactic radiotherapy is a very precise technique used for selected vertebral lesions, to control the tumor and relieve pain.
- It is distinguished by a high, focused dose in one or a few sessions, with a very sharp dose fall-off to protect the nearby spinal cord.
- It is not suitable for every patient; your doctor selects those who meet strict criteria.
The area being treated
- The specific affected vertebra or vertebrae, with careful avoidance of the spinal cord.
- The margin around the target is very small thanks to the precision of the technique.
- The spinal cord is defined with high precision as the most important organ to protect.
Preparing for CT simulation
- It requires very precise planning with an MRI fused to the CT to accurately define the tumor and spinal cord.
- A precise immobilization device is made for you (body or neck depending on the vertebral level) to ensure stability to the millimeter or less.
- Preparation and planning may take longer than conventional treatment because of its high precision.
Positioning & immobilization
- You lie in a tight immobilization device that minimizes movement.
- The machine takes precise images before and during treatment to continuously verify position.
- Complete stillness is extremely important because of the proximity of the spinal cord and the high dose.
How your treatment is planned
- The physicists and doctor define the tumor and spinal cord with extreme precision, designing a plan with a very sharp dose gradient between them.
- The plan passes stricter-than-usual quality checks before the first session.
- The goal: the highest possible dose to the tumor while keeping the spinal cord within strict safety limits.
Early (acute) side effects
- A temporary pain flare after treatment in some patients โ expected and managed with painkillers or steroids when needed.
- Mild tiredness.
- Nausea or symptoms depending on the treated vertebral level (such as swallowing or stomach).
- Slight skin redness at times.
Possible late side effects
- Risk of a compression fracture in the treated vertebra in some patients โ monitored and may need intervention.
- Very rare spinal cord injury from the dose (avoided by strict safety limits).
- Other late effects depending on the vertebral level and nearby organs.
When to contact us immediately
- New or increasing weakness or numbness in the limbs, or difficulty controlling urination or bowels (emergency โ spinal cord compression)
- New sudden severe back pain (possible vertebral fracture)
- Fever or signs of infection
- Sudden loss of sensation or movement coordination
If any of these appear, contact your treatment team immediately or go to the emergency department.
How to prepare
- Keep your precise imaging and planning appointments, as their quality is the basis of treatment safety.
- Report immediately any new weakness or numbness before or after treatment.
- Continue your painkillers, and expect a possible temporary pain flare after the session.
- Be careful of falls and excess strain on the back, and ask about any movement restrictions.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Why did you choose stereotactic treatment (SBRT) for my case specifically?
- How many sessions are expected?
- What is the risk of a vertebral fracture after treatment and how do we monitor it?
- What signs should I watch for and report immediately?
- Are there alternatives, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Important notice
This platform is for explanation and education only and does not replace medical advice. Your treating physician is the final source of truth for your condition and treatment plan. Do not make any treatment decision based on this content alone.