What is the CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System all about? It is a non-invasive procedure that treats cancerous and non-cancerous tumors in certain areas of the body. Cleared by the FDA in 2001 to treat tumors, the system has treated over 40,000 patients worldwide and is used in over 100 hospitals in the United States.
The first of its kind, the CyberKnife treatment delivers a highly concentrated dose of beamed radiation that is directed into tumors with precise accuracy. The system can attack tumors in any part of the body. The procedure requires no incisions and is the first pain-free non-invasive option for patients who have inoperable tumors or are looking for an alternative to surgery. The benefits of the procedure include a lower the risk of complications, a reduction of recovery time and an absence of pain.
The system is unique because it uses image guidance software to pin-point and track tumors and tumor movement. It is so accurate that the beams of radiation can be delivered directly into the tumor sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. The system also has an unlimited reach to treat a wide range of tumors including brain, liver, spine, kidney, pancreas, prostate and lungs. If there are multiple tumors, each one will require its own course of treatment because every tumor is different in size and shape. This prevents an excessive dose of radiation being administered to a tumor that is smaller in size. The procedure can also be used to treat lesions on the spine and brain, but most often it is used to treat tumors.
Treatment Process
The treatment process involves a 30-40 minute high resolution CT scan of a patient’s body. The CT-scan provides a detailed 3D image of the area that needs treatment. The recorded images determine the shape, size and location of the tumor. It will also identify healthy surrounding tissues to avoid. The data is then transferred to the CyberKnife system. A clinician then analyzes the information to determine and plan the best course of treatment.
Once a treatment plan is developed, the patient is ready to begin with the CyberKnife procedure. Comfortably positioned on a treatment table, the patient will need to lie as still as possible. While being surrounded by a body cradling system, the imaging system records the first of many X-rays. A computer controlled robotic arm moves around the patient in a slow steady motion to the numerous locations that will receive the beam of radiation.
Certain types of tumors in the body require higher doses of radiation depending on its size. Depending on the type of tumor to be treated, the duration of each session will be between 30 and 90 minutes. Often, it is necessary that the treatments are administered in stages. This will require a patient to return over several days. Typically, the course of treatment will conclude within 5 days.
Costs
Because there is no hospital stay, the CyberKnife surgery is less expensive than inpatient surgery. A patient may have to cover initial charges because insurance companies may not cover all of the treatments. Typically, facilities require a down payment or full payment before any services are rendered. This will vary at different locations.
Side Effects
Although the entire process is pain free, side effects may include fatigue, nausea and diarrhea. Depending on the area the treatment was administered will determine what side effects may occur. Typically, a patient is able to return home to resume normal daily activities the same day as the treatment. If there are extended side effects for a long period of time, medication will be prescribed by a doctor.
Follow-Up
It is important to follow up after the treatments have concluded. To determine the tumors treatment response, a follow up image will need to be performed. It will be used to monitor progress. If additional steps are necessary, doctors will plan the next course of action.
About the author: Kyle Sanders is a health blogger and advocate of advanced, alternative health treatments like the CyberKnife Cancer Treatment, as well as other revolutionary health treatments emerging as technology becomes more advanced. For more information about CyberKnife treatment options, visit the CyberKnife homepage.
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