Stereotactic radiosurgery and fractionated radiation therapy in the management of pituitary tumors

Pituitary tumors require a diverse, multidisciplinary approach in their management. Stereotactic radiosurgery (single or hypofractionated) and fractionated radiotherapy are integral parts of the armamentarium. With the introduction of highly conformal, stereotactic ionizing radiation approaches, the reported tumor control rates and clinical outcomes have improved significantly. This review details the indications, risks, and outcomes of pituitary radiosurgery and radiation therapy, and presents in brief the differences in treatment approaches between stereotactic radiosurgery, fractionated radiation therapy, and proton therapy.