This Phase I/II trial studies the ability to stop brain metastases from coming back after treatment with radiosurgery followed by surgical resection. It will also evaluate the side effects of these combined treatments and help determine the best radiosurgery dose. Radiosurgery focuses the x-rays directly to the tumor and cause less damage to the normal tissue in the brain.
Have a prior histologic diagnosis of cancer other than small cell lung cancer, lymphoma, and germ cell histologies
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of 1-4 brain metastases, with at least one lesion > 20 mm and ≤ 50 mm in maximal diameter and determined to be appropriate for SRS and gross total resection; all other brain metastases are appropriate for SRS
Patient can have prior SRS to lesions other than the one planned for neoadjuvant SRS and resection
Patient must have a Karnofsky performance score of ≥ 70
Patient deemed medically unfit to undergo surgical resection of brain metastasis
Prior whole brain radiotherapy
Patient with contraindication for imaging with MRI
Inability to participate in study activities due to physical or mental limitations