Worldwide Access to Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Publication Date
2019
Journal Title
World Neurosurg
Abstract
© 2019 Elsevier Inc. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a safe and effective technology that can address a variety of neurosurgical conditions, but in many parts of the world, access remains an issue. Although the technology is increasingly available in the United States, Canada, Europe, and parts of Asia, poor access to central nervous system (CNS) imaging and inadequate treatment equipment in other parts of the world limit the availability of radiosurgery as a treatment option. In addition, epidemiologic data about cancer and CNS metastases in low-income countries are sparse and much less complete than in more developed countries, and the need for radiosurgery may be underestimated as a result. Current radiosurgical platforms can be expensive to install and require a substantial amount of personnel training for safe operation. Socioeconomic and political forces are relevant to limitations to and opportunities for improving access to care. Here we examine the current barriers to access and propose areas for future efforts to improve global availability of radiosurgery for neurosurgical conditions.
Volume Number
130
Pages
608 - 614
Document Type
Article
Status
Faculty
Facility
School of Medicine
Primary Department
Radiation Medicine
PMID
DOI
10.1016/j.wneu.2019.04.031