What is CyberKnife?
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Rebound’s brain and spine neurosurgery team uses the latest technology to treat its patients. Our board-certified neurosurgeons use two forms of stereotactic radiosurgery, Gamma Knife and CyberKnife, to treat neurological disorders and cancer. This technology provides an alternative to invasive surgery with minimal risk of complications. Learn more about one of our state-of-the-art procedures, CyberKnife, from Rebound neurosurgeon, Dr. Ashok Modha.
What is CyberKnife?
CyberKnife is a form of non-surgical robotic radiosurgery (radiation therapy) used to treat tumors.
“CyberKnife is a unique and appealing method of treatment in that it does not involve surgical incision,” says Dr. Modha. “Instead, CyberKnife administers beams of radiation to the affected area of the brain or spine to treat tumors.”
What does CyberKnife Treat?
CyberKnife may be used to treat tumors in the brain, spine, lungs, kidney, pancreas, prostate and sometimes other areas of the body. At Rebound, our brain and spine neurosurgery team specifically uses CyberKnife to treat tumors of the brain and spine.
“CyberKnife is often recommended as a treatment option for our patients with inoperable or very complex tumors, because it does not involve surgical incision and there are less complications associated with this type of treatment,” says Dr. Modha.
How Long is a CyberKnife Procedure?
Depending of the severity and location of the tumor, CyberKnife procedures can be completed in anywhere from one to five days in sessions. Each treatment session is typically completed in an hour to and hour and half.
During the procedure, a robotic arm administers radiation at multiple angles to the treatment site.
What are the Benefits of CyberKnife?
One of the primary benefits of CyberKnife treatment is its accuracy. “CyberKnife’s advanced technology is able to pinpoint a patient’s tumor with precision and even allows for patient movement that may happen during the procedure,” says Dr. Modha.
Because of this pinpoint precision combined with highly concentrated beams of radiation, CyberKnife involves minimal health risks and complications, such as damaging the healthy tissue in proximity to the treatment site.
Recovery is another important benefit of CyberKnife treatment. “All patients are able to receive treatment in an outpatient basis, meaning they are able to avoid an overnight hospital stay,” says Dr. Modha. “This quick recovery time is considered a valuable benefit that also involves few, if any, side effects and no pain.”
Some patients experience brain swelling after CyberKnife treatment to areas of the brain. However, the swelling typically subsides with time. In the event of abnormal prolonged swelling, the surgeon may recommend pursuing open surgery to correct the issue.
To learn more about CyberKnife and whether or not it is a viable treatment option for you, please contact us at 1-800-REBOUND or book an appointment with one of our specialists.
Related Rebound Resources:
Rebound Brain & Spine Neurosurgery Team and Services
Stereotactic Radiosurgery – Gamma Knife
Other Trusted Resources:
PeaceHealth Southwest – CyberKnife Center
PeaceHealth Southwest – CyberKnife FAQs
PeaceHealth Southwest – CyberKnife Brain/Spine
American Brain Tumor Association – Stereotactic Radiosurgery