CyberKnife® Robotic Radiosurgery System
CyberKnife® Robotic Radiosurgery Procedure
Scanning
Prior to treatment with the CyberKnife System, the patient undergoes imaging procedures to determine the size, shape and location of the tumor. The process begins with a standard high-resolution CT scan; or, for certain tumors, other imaging techniques, such as MRI, angiography or PET, may also be used.
Planning
Following the scanning, the image data is then digitally transferred to the CyberKnife System′s treatment planning workstation, where the treating physician identifies the exact size, shape and location of the tumor. A qualified clinician then uses the CyberKnife software to generate a treatment plan to provide the desired radiation dose to the identified tumor location while avoiding damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The patient does not need to be present during this step in the process.
Treatment
During a CyberKnife procedure, a patient lies comfortably on the treatment table, which automatically positions the patient. Anesthesia is not required, as the procedure is virtually painless and noninvasive. The Cyberknife Radiosurgery procedure generally lasts between 30 to 90 minutes and typically completed in one to five visits.
Follow-Up
Follow-up imaging, generally performed with a combination of CT, MRI and/or PET scanning, is usually performed in the months following treatment to assess the tumor′s response to the delivered radiation.
Is Your Doctor a Memorial Doctor?
To find a physician who performs CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery, call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
