Why is CyberKnife used in stereotactic radiosurgery?

CyberKnife combines a compact radiation source with image guidance and a robotic positioning system. The treatment team plans radiation beams from multiple directions so they converge on the target. Imaging during treatment can help the system account for movement, such as breathing, and adjust the beam position. This approach may be considered for selected tumours or other small targets when a highly focused radiation plan is suitable. It is not an operation in the usual sense, and suitability depends on the target's size, location, shape and your overall treatment plan.

Your radiation team will review scans, previous treatment and the position of nearby organs before creating the plan. Ask whether you need immobilisation, special preparation or a marker for tracking. During treatment, you lie still while the machine moves around you; sessions may be arranged on one visit or across several visits depending on the plan. Report medicines, pregnancy possibility and any difficulty lying comfortably before treatment begins.

Contact your radiation team about new or worsening pain, severe headache, repeated vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizure, breathing difficulty or a significant skin reaction near the treatment area. Seek emergency help for sudden loss of movement or speech, a seizure that does not stop, collapse or severe breathing problems. Side effects depend on the treated body area and can appear during or after treatment.

Why is this focused approach suitable for my target? How will movement be tracked? How many treatment visits are planned? Which nearby organs need protection, and what symptoms should I report?