Sate of Art of Stereotaxic Techniques for Recurrent Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Abstract

Recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a challenging condition to treat, requiring effective strategies due to its aggressiveness and resistance to conventional therapies. Stereotactic techniques, including stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), have emerged as promising options for managing recurrent NPC. These techniques deliver highly precise radiation doses to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, maximizing tumor control, and reducing side effects. This review explored the current evidence and clinical outcomes of stereotactic techniques in managing recurrent NPC. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed as the primary database, and 58 relevant articles were analyzed. The selected studies demonstrated the efficacy of stereotactic techniques, with high response rates and favorable local control and survival rates reported in various cohorts. However, the review also noted the potential risk of complications associated with stereotactic techniques, including late toxicities such as radionecrosis or hemorrhage. While the studies showed promising results, the level of evidence was primarily based on retrospective analyses and some pilot and prospective studies, highlighting the need for further validation and longer-term follow-up. More research is required to establish optimal protocols, minimize risks, and further understand the role of these techniques in improving patient outcomes.