An overview of Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive treatment method that uses precisely focused radiation beams to target tumors and other issues in various parts of the body. It is not a surgical procedure and does not involve any incisions. SRS works by damaging the DNA of targeted cells, causing them to lose their ability to reproduce and resulting in tumor shrinkage. Treatment sessions can range from a single session for brain and spine treatments to multiple sessions for treatments in other parts of the body.
What is Stereotactic Radiosurgery used for?
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is used to treat tumors and other problems in various parts of the body, including the brain, neck, lungs, liver, spine, and other soft tissue areas. The primary goal is to damage the DNA of the targeted cells, causing tumors to shrink or decrease in size. It is a less invasive and safer alternative to conventional surgery or radiation therapy, with minimal damage to healthy surrounding tissues. SRS is often used for noncancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) brain tumors, as well as brain metastases. In some cases, it is also used for tumors in other parts of the body, which is known as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) or stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR).
How to prepare for Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Before the stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or radiotherapy procedure, there are several patient preparations that may be required, depending on the specific type of equipment and the location of the treatment area. These preparations may include:
- Head Frame Placement (for brain SRS): A lightweight frame may be attached to the head with four pins to stabilize the head during the radiation treatment and serve as a point of reference for focusing the beams of radiation.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia Imaging: Imaging scans such as MRI or CT are used to create images of nerve fibers to select a target area for treatment.
- Dose Planning: The results of the brain scans are used to determine the appropriate areas to treat, dosages of radiation, and how to focus the radiation beams to treat the target areas.
- Medications: Patients should bring any medications they are currently taking to the treatment center and consult with the medical team about whether they should take their medications on the day of the procedure.
- Hydration: Patients may have an IV line to receive fluids during the procedure if they are not allowed to eat or drink. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the medical team to ensure a smooth and successful SRS procedure.
How is Stereotactic Radiosurgery conducted?
Stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-invasive treatment method that uses precisely focused radiation beams to target tumors or abnormalities in various parts of the body. The process involves several steps, including marking the affected area, simulation, planning, and dose delivery.
During the marking step, a fiducial marker may be placed in or near the tumor. This is typically done as an outpatient procedure before SRS treatment.
In the simulation stage, the patient is immobilized using an immobilization device to ensure they remain still during the treatment. The radiation oncologist determines the best position for the body to align it with the radiation beams. If the patient has claustrophobia, they should inform their doctor.
After the simulation, imaging scans are taken, and the patient is sent home before the planning stage. The treatment team uses specialized software and imaging scans to determine the appropriate radiation beams, dosages, and target areas.
The dose planning process involves feeding the brain scan results into a computerized planning system. This determines the appropriate treatment areas, dosages, and focus of the radiation beams.
In summary, stereotactic radiosurgery involves a series of precise steps, including marking, simulation, planning, and dose delivery, to treat tumors or abnormalities using focused radiation beams.
How are Stereotactic Radiosurgery results reported?
Stereotactic radiosurgery results are reported based on the condition being treated. For benign tumors, the tumor may shrink over a period of 18 months to two years, with the main goal of treatment being to prevent any future tumor growth. For trigeminal neuralgia, the procedure involves planning the appropriate areas to treat, dosages of radiation, and how to focus the radiation beams to treat the affected nerve fibers. The results of the brain scans are fed into a computerized planning system that enables the radiosurgery team to plan the treatment. The treatment effect of stereotactic radiosurgery occurs gradually, and results may vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
Understanding the report
Stereotactic radiosurgery results are interpreted based on the condition being treated and the patient's response to the therapy. After the procedure, patients are monitored for changes in their condition, such as tumor shrinkage or relief from symptoms like tremors or pain. The treatment effect of stereotactic radiosurgery occurs gradually, depending on the condition being treated. For benign tumors, the tumor may shrink over a period of 18 months to two years, but the main goal of treatment for benign tumors is to prevent any future tumor growth. For cancers, the treatment aims to shrink the tumor and slow down its growth. Interpretation of the results also depends on the specific type of tumor or condition being treated. For example, stereotactic radiosurgery may be used to treat cancers of the liver, lung, and spine. Researchers are also exploring the use of stereotactic radiosurgery to treat other conditions, including melanoma of the eye, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, epilepsy, and psychological disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder. In most cases, stereotactic radiosurgery has a lower risk of side effects compared with other types of traditional surgery or radiation therapy. However, early complications or side effects may include fatigue, nausea, and headaches, which are usually temporary. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to understand your specific case and the interpretation of your stereotactic radiosurgery results.