Stereotactic Arrhythmia Radioablation for Refractory Ventricular Tachycardia: A Narrative Review and Exploratory Pooled Analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Toxicity

TL;DR

This paper reviews and analyzes clinical outcomes of stereotactic arrhythmia radioablation (STAR) for refractory ventricular tachycardia, highlighting its safety, efficacy, and the need for standardized protocols.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive pooled analysis of existing studies on STAR, identifying key outcomes, safety profile, and factors influencing treatment success.

Findings

Pooled 6-month mortality: 16%

75% reduction in VT burden at 6 months

7% experienced grade 3+ acute toxicities

Abstract

Purpose: Stereotactic arrhythmia radioablation (STAR) is a non-invasive salvage therapy for refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT), especially in patients ineligible for catheter ablation. This narrative review and pooled analysis evaluates the safety, efficacy, and technical characteristics of STAR, integrating preclinical studies, case reports, case series, and clinical trials. Methods and Materials: A comprehensive review identified 86 studies published between 2015 and 2025, including 12 preclinical studies, 49 case reports, 18 case series, and 7 clinical trials. Study-level data were extracted for pooled analysis of 6- and 12-month mortality, VT burden reduction, and grade 3+ acute toxicities. Subgroup analyses were performed by delivery modality, age, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and cardiomyopathy type. Results: Pooled mortality was 16% (95% CI: 11-20%) at 6 months and 33% (95% CI: 27-38%) at 12 months. VT burden reduction at 6 months averaged 75% (95% CI: 73-77%) but showed substantial heterogeneity (I^2 = 98.8%). Grade 3+ acute toxicities occurred in 7% (95% CI: 4-10%), with heart failure being most common. Subgroup analyses suggested better outcomes in younger patients, those with NICM, and those with higher LVEF. Conclusions: STAR is a promising salvage therapy with favorable acute safety and efficacy. Outcome heterogeneity and inconsistent reporting highlight the need for standardized definitions, dosimetric protocols, and longer-term follow-up. Prospective trials and real-world registries are critical for refining STAR's role in VT management.