How Stereotactic Radiosurgery Works

Stereotactic radiosurgery uses sophisticated computerized imaging to precisely target a narrow X-ray beam. Using this method, it is possible to effectively destroy small tumors or close down abnormal blood vessels.

This technique, which is accurate to one millimeter or less, does not require surgery and can be done on an outpatient basis. Radiation can be delivered using either the frameless CyberKnife, or a framed system.

Stereotactic radiosurgery includes the participation of both the surgical and radiation oncology team who work together to evaluate and treat each patient.

Watch video of Cyberknife Stereotactic Radiosurgery and an interview with neurosurgeon Steven Chang, MD. The video was made in March 2002 and mentions there were only five CyberKnife units in the United States at the time.

Patients Who Can Receive Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery is limited to lesions that are well-defined and no larger than three to four centimeters. The location of the lesion is also important. For example, lesions too close to radiosensitive structures, such as the optic nerve, are not good targets for radiosurgery.

Stereotactic radiosurgery is an important new treatment option for many patients with abnormal blood vessels in the brain (for example, arteriovenous malformations), brain tumors, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, other special tumors of the head and neck regions, such as nasopharynx tumors or acoustic schwannomas.