Much research is being done on treating metastasis. Other approaches are being tried. These include anticoagulation of the blood, enzyme inhibitors, gene therapy, and growth factor inhibitors. These treatments are experimental. Some people can have more than one brain or lung metastasis removed without many long-term problems.
Any surgery involves risks.
These include infection, bleeding, scarring, loss of organ function, and death. Radiation treatment for metastasis is usually directed to just one area. Any side effects will be related to the area being treated. In general, nausea, fatigue, and skin irritation can result. More serious effects, like bone marrow suppression or secondary cancers, are possible.