Understanding this cancer
CyberKnife is a brand of robotic radiation-delivery equipment. It delivers stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) from many angles while imaging tracks patient position. No incision is made. Other machines can also deliver SRS or SBRT.
Signs to discuss with a doctor
It may be considered for selected small, well-defined tumours or metastases in the brain, spine, lung, liver, prostate and other sites. Suitability depends on size, number, location, prior radiation and the tolerance of nearby organs.
Risk factors
Side effects depend on the treated site and can include fatigue, skin or mucosal irritation, swelling, pain flare and delayed injury to nearby normal tissue. Brain treatment can cause radiation necrosis; other organ-specific risks must be planned.
Tests and diagnosis
Planning uses diagnostic imaging and a simulation scan, immobilization, target and organ contouring, dose calculation and quality assurance. Pathology and staging should be confirmed whenever clinically appropriate.
Treatment approaches
SRS or SBRT may be used alone or with surgery, systemic therapy or conventional radiation. “Robotic” or “radiosurgery” does not mean it is always better, risk-free or suitable for widespread disease.
Prevention and screening
This is a treatment technology, not a prevention or screening method. Avoiding unnecessary radiation and following evidence-based screening remain separate matters.
Questions for your care team
Why is stereotactic treatment appropriate for this target? Is CyberKnife necessary or can another platform provide an equivalent plan? How many fractions, what dose constraints and what short- and long-term risks apply?