The use of laser interstitial thermal therapy in the treatment of brain metastases: a literature review

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this paper is to discuss the current evidence for Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) in the treatment of brain metastases, our current recommendations for patient selection and the future perspectives for this therapy. We have also touched upon the possible complications and role of systemic therapy coupled with LITT for the treatment of brain metastases Material and Methods Two authors carried out the literature search using two databases independently, including PubMed, and Web of Science. The review included prospective and retrospective studies using LITT to treat brain metastases. Results Twenty-two original articles were analyzed in this review, particularly clinical outcomes and complications. We have also provided our institutional experience in the use of LITT to treat brain metastases and addressed future perspectives for the use of this technology. Conclusions The current literature supports LITT as a safe and effective therapy for patients with brain metastases that have failed SRS. Larger studies are still required to better evaluate the use of systemic therapy in concomitance with LITT. New images modalities may enable optimized treatment and outcomes.

Keywords

• laser interstitial thermal therapy
• brain metastases
• ablation
• laser
• thermometry