Do you routinely contour spinal nerves as avoidance structures for spine SBRT/SRS cases other than those for the brachial and lumbosacral plexuses?

Topics: Radiation Oncology • Palliation

Is this different for de novo or reirradiation cases? Would you recommend avoidance of the nerve roots if there is gross disease present in these areas?

Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Academic Institution

In my practice, I do not typically contour spinal nerves as OARs other than those for brachial and lumbrosacral plexuses. Radiculopathy can occur but it is usually well tolerated and self-limiting. In my experience, the rate of persistent radiculopathy is very low.

Comments

Radiation Oncologist at Case Western Reserve University/ University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center
I agree with @Simon S. Lo. When using 9 Gy x 3 or ...

Radiation Oncologist at University of Washington School of Medicine
I agree with @Daniel E. Spratt.

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