Stereotactic Radiosurgery

The Procedure

First, a stereotactic frame is attached to the patient’s head for fitting. Then, depending on the type of lesion, a series of scans are taken by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or angiography. The stereotactic team then uses the scans, along with the specialized computer equipment, to determine the exact location of the tumor, the precise dosage and the radiation configuration. Next, the team performs a series of treatment checks to ensure precise dosage and location. During treatment, which only takes about 30 minutes, the patient feels no radiation, which is focused on the exact target. The frame is removed after treatment, and the patient normally goes home the same day.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Stereotactic radiosurgery administers precise, high doses of radiation to cranial abnormalities. Computer imaging equipment allows for exact lesion location and for treatment planning.

This one-time procedure can be completed in a day. Actual radiation treatment usually only takes about 30 minutes.A noninvasive treatment, stereotactic radiosurgery is a highly effective technique that reduces the risks and complications of surgery.

Stereotactic Radiotherapy

Unlike stereotactic radiosurgery, stereotactic radiotherapy is a treatment method that delivers low concentrations of radiation to tumors over a period of time. By spreading out these low-dose radiation treatments, stereotactic radiotherapy reduces exposure of nearby critical structures to radiation. This procedure is especially important for treating pediatric patients or for treating lesions that are near radiosensitive tissues.

Treatment Applications

With this new stereotactic equipment, the specialists at The Regional Cancer Center have enhanced their abilities to treat abnormalities such as:

• Acoustic neuromas
• Arteriovenous malformations
• Brain metastases
• Cavernous angiomas
• Certain functional brain disorders
• Craniopharyngiomas
• Gliomas
• Meningiomas of the skull base
• Pediatric brain tumors
• Pituitary adenomas
• Recurrent brain tumors

A Team Approach

JCMC uses a team approach for this treatment. Our stereotactic team includes a neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, physicist, dosimetrist and radiation therapist.