Introduction:
Stereotactic radiosurgery is an advanced medical procedure that delivers highly targeted and precise doses of radiation to treat various conditions in the brain and body, offering a non-surgical alternative with minimized impact on surrounding healthy tissues. This article provides the details about stereotactic radiosurgery.
What Is Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Stereotactic radiosurgery is an exact therapeutic radiation method capable of addressing brain and spinal abnormalities, such as cancer, epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and arteriovenous malformations.
This procedure avoids the need for incisions or openings; instead, it meticulously directs X-ray beams toward abnormal tissues through the skin from various angles. Similar to other therapeutic radiology approaches, radiosurgery functions by disrupting or damaging the DNA of cells in irregular areas using X-ray beams. This disruption prevents the cells from replicating and proliferating. Successful treatment leads to the deactivation and gradual reduction of the abnormal tissue.
For lesions in the spine and other locations, an automated arm can administer treatment while moving around the patient.
What Are the Alternative Names for Stereotactic Radiotherapy?
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SRT.
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Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).
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Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (SRS).
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CyberKnife.
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CyberKnife radiosurgery.
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Non-invasive neurosurgery.
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Brain tumor - CyberKnife.
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Brain cancer - CyberKnife.
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Brain metastases - CyberKnife.
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Parkinson - CyberKnife.
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Epilepsy - CyberKnife.
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Tremor - CyberKnife.
What Are the Reasons That Lead Individuals to Opt for Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
The remarkable precision of this technique proves invaluable when addressing tiny or hard-to-access abnormalities in the brain and spine. By concentrating the radiation precisely, radiosurgery minimizes harm to nearby healthy tissues and lowers the chances of infection. This aspect enhances its safety, especially for individuals who have recently undergone surgery.
What Types of Conditions Can Be Treated With Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Stereotactic radiosurgery can be used to treat various conditions, including:
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Brain tumors.
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Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).
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Epilepsy.
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Movement disorders (such as Parkinson's disease).
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Metastatic tumors in the brain.
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Spinal tumors or lesions.
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Essential tremor.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Compared to conventional radiotherapies that have a broader impact and can harm healthy tissue, stereotactic radiosurgery results in fewer and less severe side effects. The temporary nature of these side effects is a common trend, with most improving within weeks. These effects encompass:
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Skin irritation at the treatment site.
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Hair loss at the treatment site.
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Headaches.
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Neurological symptoms like seizures, numbness/tingling, or weakness.
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Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What Are the Key Steps Involved in the Process of Undergoing Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Before undergoing stereotactic radiosurgery, a collaborative effort between radiation oncology and neurosurgery specialists is employed. A dosimetry expert determines beam directions, while a physicist calculates a suitable radiation dose considering both risk and potential effectiveness. A pivotal aspect of the procedure's planning involves optimizing abnormal tissue treatment while safeguarding the surrounding healthy tissues. This planning phase involving the experts spans around two weeks, although it can be expedited in emergencies.
During the actual procedure, patients might visit an outpatient center. The process involves several hours, encompassing preparation, treatment, and post-procedure observation. A companion is required to accompany home. The treatment lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes and involves immobile without incisions. The treatment team, including physicians, nurses, and technicians, manages the procedure. A head-holder is used for brain lesions to ensure the head remains completely still. During treatment, the patient is placed on a rigid table akin to those used in MRI or CT scans. The team will program the treatment machine, administering focused X-ray doses. Following treatment, a recovery period ensues, after which, if all is well, one is free to go home.
Once home, one can resume normal activities. The neurology and neurosurgery team will conduct ongoing monitoring with CT and MRI scans. A single treatment is generally sufficient, although some cases necessitate multiple sessions, usually wrapped up within five treatments. (In contrast, conventional radiation therapy might require up to 10 sessions.)
How Long Does a Stereotactic Radiosurgery Session Typically Last?
A stereotactic radiosurgery session's duration can vary based on several factors. On average, a session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. The precise treatment time is influenced by factors such as the size, location, and complexity of the targeted area and the technology used for the procedure. While the actual delivery of radiation is relatively quick, the setup and preparation might extend the overall time spent at the treatment facility. It's important to note that while the treatment itself is brief, patients may need to undergo multiple sessions over days or weeks for optimal results, depending on the specific medical condition being treated. The healthcare team will provide detailed information about the expected duration of the sessions based on individual circumstances.
What Is the Prognosis of Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Observing the outcomes of CyberKnife treatment may take several weeks or even months. The prognosis varies based on the specific condition being addressed. The healthcare provider will track the advancement using imaging assessments like MRI and CT scans.
What Is the Success Rate of Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Various Conditions?
The effectiveness of stereotactic radiosurgery varies depending on the specific medical condition under consideration. Generally, it has demonstrated positive results in treating diverse issues like brain tumors, Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs), trigeminal neuralgia, and certain movement disorders such as essential tremor. The achieved success is influenced by factors including the abnormality's size, location, the patient's overall health, and the technology employed. It's advisable for patients to engage in conversations with their healthcare providers to obtain personalized insights into the potential success rate for their specific condition and set realistic expectations.
Are There Any Alternative Treatments to Consider?
Yes, alternative treatments can be considered depending on the specific medical condition. Alternatives to stereotactic radiosurgery may include traditional open surgery, conventional external beam radiation therapy, chemotherapy, medication management, and, in some cases, watchful waiting or observation. Selecting the appropriate treatment path hinges on variables like the condition's characteristics, its location, the patient's general well-being, and its inclinations. Engaging in a dialogue with a healthcare professional is crucial to explore the choices and pinpoint the treatment strategy that best aligns with the individual's circumstances.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, stereotactic radiosurgery is a valuable and effective treatment avenue for various conditions, spanning from brain tumors and AVMs to neuralgia and movement disorders. Its focused methodology and limited impact on healthy tissue position it as a noteworthy alternative for individuals seeking minimally invasive therapeutic solutions.
