What is stereotactic radiosurgery done with?

Stereotactic radiosurgery uses scans to locate a target and plan radiation beams from many directions. Gamma Knife uses a specialised head-focused radiation unit, while CyberKnife uses a computer-controlled linear accelerator mounted on a robotic arm. Both approaches deliver treatment without a surgical cut into the target, although the equipment, positioning method and treatment schedule differ.

A custom mask or a frame may help keep the head still. The team checks your position and protects nearby healthy tissue during planning and delivery. The treatment is generally used for selected brain or other small, clearly defined targets; suitability depends on location, size, number of lesions and previous treatment.

Bring your scan history and medication list, and tell the team about implanted devices, seizures, headaches or difficulty lying flat. Ask whether you will use a mask or frame, how many visits are planned and whether someone should accompany you home. Follow instructions about medicines and eating before the appointment.

Contact your treatment team for worsening headache, repeated vomiting, new weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision changes or a seizure. If you have a seizure lasting longer than expected, lose consciousness or develop sudden severe weakness, seek emergency care. If a frame was used, report persistent bleeding, swelling or drainage at the pin sites.

Which system is being recommended for my target, and why? Will I need a frame or mask? What nearby structures are being protected, and which symptoms should prompt an urgent call?