CyberKnife® is the world’s first and only robotic radiosurgery system, comprised of a compact linear accelerator – a machine that generates a radiation beam – attached to a highly maneuverable robotic arm. This relatively new technology has already been used to treat more than 200,000 patients around the world.
CyberKnife® uses a procedure called stereotactic radiosurgery to treat tumors with high-dose radiation. Targeting from different angles destroys cancerous and benign tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. This pinpoint accuracy allows our physicians to treat difficult-to-reach tumors that may have been impossible to treat in the past. While the name may conjure images of knives and scalpels, CyberKnife® is not traditional surgery. Treatment is painless and there is no cutting or anesthesia required.
CyberKnife® also significantly reduces treatment time for the patient. Treatment is reduced to one to five treatments over the course of one to five days depending on the size, location and type of tumor. In contrast, traditional radiation therapy typically takes five days a week over a period of six to eight weeks.
Most patients go home right after CyberKnife® treatment and immediately resume normal activities. There may be side effects, such as fatigue, but these are usually minor and temporary.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals please call 410-601-WELL.