Palliative radiotherapy in the spine

Conventionally fractionated radiotherapy and stereotactic body radiotherapy are vital tools in the treatment of patients with spinal metastases. The indications for treatment may include painful bone metastases, impending or existing spinal cord compression, and an emerging role in the treatment of oligometastatic disease. Primary treatment objectives can vary from symptomatic relief to maximizing local control in certain situations. As such, a thoughtful approach is required in each case to ensure patients receive appropriate, safe treatment that is in line with their goals of care.