Q&A: Cyberknife for brain tumor

Treatment for brain tumors can vary. For tumors that are not aggressive, treatment may range from medication to traditional surgery. For more aggressive tumors, radiation or chemotherapy may be recommended. One noninvasive alternative to surgery as treatment for tumors of all types is CyberKnife. 

Despite the fact that the name conjures images of a scalpel, CyberKnife involves no cutting or surgery. CyberKnife delivers a precise dose of radiation that destroys tumor cells, while minimizing exposure and damage to healthy tissue. It provides a pain-free, nonsurgical option for patients with tumors.

CyberKnife can be used to treat both cancerous and noncancerous tumors throughout the body, including the brain, spine, prostate, and lung. When treating tumors in the lung, radiation beams from CyberKnife adjust to the patient’s breathing in real time, making the process more comfortable for patients. Advanced robotic technology makes it possible to track tumor movement throughout treatment to ensure a precise delivery of the radiation that is customized to each patient’s unique needs.