How CyberKnife Works

The CyberKnife is a compact linear accelerator -- or radiation source -- mounted on a movable robotic arm. Image guidance cameras are used to locate the exact position of the tumor inside the body. Then, using the robotic arm which directs the Cyberknife’s radiation source, multiple, highly focused beams of radiation are directed from many targeting positions and angles. These beams all intersect within the tumor or lesion, delivering a cumulative dose of radiation large enough to control the cancer cells. The precision of the CyberKnife allows very little radiation to escape to surrounding tissue, enabling a higher dose of radiation to be used, improving the effectiveness of the treatment.

CyberKnife treatment offers patients:

• Greater quality of life: Treatment is painless and noninvasive. There is no incision, no blood, and virtually no recovery time. Complications are dramatically reduced. Treatment is usually done on an outpatient basis, with patients able to return to their normal activities right away.
  
  
• More options for people with previously inoperable tumors: The CyberKnife can treat many tumors that are inoperable by conventional or other stereotactic radiosurgical methods.
  
  
• No hospitalization, less recovery time: This also means fewer hospital costs for patients. Treatment is usually covered by Medicare and most private insurance companies.