Spine Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS) as a Predictive Tool in Conventional Radiotherapy: A Narrative Review

Cancer Invest. 2023 Oct;41(9):774-780. doi: 10.1080/07357907.2023.2269566. Epub 2023 Nov 17.

Abstract

Aims: This narrative review seeks to identify the SINS score application in the radiation oncology field.

Methods: This literature review was performed searching papers on MEDLINE published from January 2010 to August 2022.

Results: In terms of vertebral painful lesions and RT symptomatic responses, the SINS score could be an interesting aid in order to choose the right therapeutic approach. Lesions with higher level of instability, and therefore higher SINS score, could did not find any significant benefit from radiation therapy which is more effective on the tumor-related pain component. For SINS as a predictor of adverse event after RT or its changes after RT, we obtained contrasting results.

Conclusions: The reported few experiences showed ambiguous conclusions. Further prospective studies are needed.

Keywords: SINS; radiotherapy; vertebral instability.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Joint Instability* / pathology
  • Joint Instability* / radiotherapy
  • Prospective Studies
  • Spinal Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Spinal Neoplasms* / radiotherapy