Clinicians view and practice pattern on the use of stereotactic radiosurgery in brain metastases: A survey among Indian radiation oncologists

Context: Due to increased incidence of late neurotoxicities associated with whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT), the idea of treating limited brain metastasis (BM) (1–4) only with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has become an interesting topic. Due to lack of SRS facilities, there is a major disagreement in the use of SRS in BMs. Aims: In our study, we tried to find out views and practice patterns of the Indian radiation oncologists (RO) on the use of SRS in BMs. Setting and Design: This is an internet-based, cross-sectional survey among ROs. Materials and Methods: Online questionnaires were sent to 411 RO through an online survey portal (SurveyMonkey®). Responses were analyzed. Results: Among which, 24.6% (101) responded completely. 39.6% were from teaching hospitals and 49.4% (48) were had 5 metastases, 92.1% ROs practice WBRT only. Conclusions: This is probably the first study on practice patterns of SRS in India if not the world. Major discordance exists between practice patterns and views on SRS use among RO in India. Majority do not practice SRS due to lack of facilities.