Lesion localization before SBRT (fiducial placement)

Background and indications

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) requires extremely precise targeting. Metallic markers (fiducials) are placed in the tumor to serve as visible references on planning and treatment images, particularly for lung or liver tumors that move with breathing.

Benefits

Improved radiotherapy accuracy, reduced safety margins needed and better healthy tissue preservation.

Procedure

Under local anesthesia, 1-3 small metallic markers (gold or titanium) are implanted in or around the tumor under CT guidance. The procedure lasts 15-30 minutes.

Risks

Pneumothorax (for lung tumors), minor bleeding, marker migration. Overall risk is low.

Recovery and follow-up

Same-day discharge. Radiotherapy is planned a few days to 2 weeks after fiducial placement.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).