Benefits of CyberKnife for Prostate Cancer Patients
While CyberKnife® technology has been in use for more than 20 years in the cancer industry, many people still have questions about how this technology treats tumors with minimal side effects. Below are some common questions and answers about CyberKnife stereotactic body radiation therapy.
How is SBRT with CyberKnife different from conventional radiation therapy in treating prostate cancer? Because CyberKnife has the ability to directly target the prostate, while compensating for patient and prostate movement during treatment, it minimizes radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue, reducing side effects sometimes associated with other forms of treatment for prostate cancer.
What sets CyberKnife apart from other prostate cancer treatment options? CyberKnife offers several benefits for prostate cancer patients, particularly those related to quality of life issues that may be dramatically impacted by conventional surgery. A major advantage of this technology is its ability to”¬ offer patients a noninvasive treatment option that fits into their lifestyle. CyberKnife treats prostate cancer patients in five or fewer sessions, allowing patients to return to their normal routines following each session.
Is SBRT more expensive than other treatment options? A study titled “Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of SBRT Versus IMRT” compared the cost of SBRT and IMRT for treatment of low to intermediate-risk prostate cancer. The study revealed that on average the cost of SBRT was nearly $14,000 less than IMRT. You can learn more about the study here.
To find out if you are a candidate for CyberKnife treatment, contact our center.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.