CyberKnife is a form of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) that is used to treat both brain and spine tumors. It is a non-invasive procedure, meaning no incisions or surgical cutting is involved. Instead, it uses precisely targeted radiation beams to destroy the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
How CyberKnife Works:
Precise Targeting: CyberKnife uses advanced imaging and robotic technology to locate and target the tumor with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Radiation Delivery: The robotic arm delivers high-dose radiation beams from various angles, focusing on the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
Motion Tracking: CyberKnife’s real-time tracking system monitors and adjusts for any tumor movement, ensuring accurate radiation delivery throughout the treatment.
Benefits of CyberKnife:
Non-invasive: No incisions or surgical cutting are involved.
Painless: The procedure is generally painless and requires no anesthesia.
Precise: High accuracy in targeting the tumor and minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissue.
Effective: CyberKnife can effectively control tumor growth, relieve pain, and improve neurological function.
Outpatient Procedure: Treatment is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Fewer Treatment Sessions: CyberKnife often requires fewer treatment sessions compared to conventional radiation therapy.
Side Effects:
CyberKnife treatments are generally well-tolerated, and most patients experience minimal side effects.
Side effects can vary depending on the tumor location and the radiation dose used.
Possible side effects may include fatigue, temporary skin changes, and nausea.
More serious side effects, such as spinal cord injury or nerve damage, are rare.
Is CyberKnife Right for You?
CyberKnife may be a good treatment option for certain types of brain and spine tumors.
It is important to discuss your specific situation with a doctor to determine if CyberKnife is appropriate for you.
Factors like tumor size, location, and overall health will be considered when evaluating treatment options.
Call our cancer specialists in Miami for a consultation at 305-279-2900.