FUNDAMENTALS OF RADIATION ONCOLOGY IN THE TREATMENT OF VERTEBRAL METASTASES

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of radiation oncolo-gy in the management of vertebral metastases. It highlights radiobiological considerations, conven-tional external beam radiotherapy and modern stereotactic body radiotherapy techniques, as well as comparative clinical outcomes between these modalities. Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary and evidence-based decision-making frameworks, such as NOMS, SINS, and ESCC grading, to optimize tumor control, pain palliation, and preservation of neurological function. The chapter also discuss-es postoperative radiotherapy, re-irradiation strategies, and technical aspects of treatment planning. Advances in imaging, image-guided radiotherapy, and biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA continue to refine patient selection and monitoring, thereby improving survival and quality of life in this growing patient population.