New Tool Treats Tumors Without Surgery

Doctors have new radiation technology that "zeroes in" on tumors almost anywhere in the body. This highly advanced tool is called the CyberKnife® Stereotactic Radiosurgery System, and it is coming to Riverview Medical Center.

"What is truly remarkable about CyberKnife is that, while individual treatments may last from 60 to 90 minutes each, patients usually only require five treatments or less. With standard radiation, patients must undergo treatment every day for many weeks," says Nathan Kaufman, M.D., medical director of Radiation Oncology for Meridian Health.

Not A Knife at ALL
The CyberKnife is actually a way to treat tumors — without surgery or a knife.

The CyberKnife is a form of radiosurgery. Radiosurgery is not surgery, but a way to deliver super-concentrated, precise radiation to tumors. Because it is so focused, it limits damage to normal, healthy tissues.

The system allows doctors to target tumors in areas that were previously not treatable with surgery or radiation, such as tumors in the brain, neck, and spine.

A Range of Applications
The system also allows doctors to treat tumors of the pancreas, lung, and elsewhere in the body. "CyberKnife causes less damage to healthy tissue, and patients can return their normal activities right away," says Dr. Kaufman.

The CyberKnife has many advantages for patients, compared with older radiosurgery systems. It is much more comfortable because a head frame is not necessary and patients can go home right after treatment.

Find out more about the CyberKnife by calling 1-800-560-9990.