The evolving role of surgery in brain metastatic disease

Abstract

Advancements in diagnostic imaging have improved the detection of brain metastases, which are now recognized as the most common intracranial malignancies. While surgical intervention may be indicated for various reasons – including histopathological confirmation, relief of mass effect, neurological improvement, and survival benefits – evidence suggests that gross total resection is particularly important for enhancing both progression-free and overall survival. However, the management of brain metastases remains largely subjective and controversial. This review aims to critically evaluate existing evidence regarding the role of surgical intervention in the treatment of brain metastases.

Keywords

Brain metastases / Surgical resection / Microsurgical resection / Stereotactic radiosurgery / Whole-brain radiotherapy

Acknowledgements

None.

Funding

None.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Author contributions

Conceptualization:Peng Sun

Writing–original draft: Peng Sun, Xinrui Zhang

Writing–review & editing: Jun Xu, Feng Li, Yufang Zhu

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Consent for publication

The authors have obtained patient consent to publish their images and the images will not disclose the patient’s personal privacy.

Availability of data

Not applicable.

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