Tumors of the central nervous system, which affect both the brain and spinal cord, are masses of cells that grow abnormally within nerve tissue. These tumors can be benign, meaning they are noncancerous and grow slowly, or malignant, meaning they are cancerous and can grow rapidly and spread to other areas. Both brain and spinal cord tumors can significantly impact neurological function, affecting movement, sensation, the regulation of basic bodily functions, and cognition, depending on their location and size. Treating these tumors is vital not only to control tumor growth but also to preserve the patient's quality of life and reduce the risk of neurological complications.
CyberKnife technology can be used in the treatment of:
Central Nervous System
Meningioma
These are usually benign tumors that grow in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. CyberKnife radiosurgery offers precise treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Pituitary Adenomas
Benign tumors of the pituitary gland, responsible for significant hormonal imbalances. CyberKnife provides a non-invasive, highly precise treatment option.
Pituitary Adenoma
Essentially similar to pituitary adenomas, with a focus on precision to preserve the function of the surrounding gland.
Gliomas
It includes several types of brain tumors that originate from glial cells. Radiosurgery helps control the growth of these hard-to-reach tumors.
Astrocytomas
A type of glioma that develops from star cells called astrocytes. CyberKnife allows for precise radiation dosing, essential for treating high-grade variants.
Chondrosarcoma
A rare cartilage cancer that is difficult to remove surgically. Radiosurgery offers an effective alternative for treating tumors located at the base of the skull.
Pineoblastoma
A type of malignant and aggressive tumor in the pineal gland. CyberKnife can be used to complement surgery or chemotherapy, especially in young patients.
Ocular Melanoma
Cancer that develops in the pigment-producing cells of the eye. CyberKnife offers precision that is vital to preserving vision as much as possible.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
This cancer develops in the upper part of the throat and behind the nose. CyberKnife allows radiation to be focused on the affected area with extreme precision.
Brainstem Tumors
Tumors located in a critical region that controls many basic bodily functions. Radiosurgery allows for effective treatment while minimizing the risk of damaging vital areas.
Medulloblastoma
A type of brain cancer more common in children, affecting the back of the skull. CyberKnife is useful in post-surgical management for removing microscopic remnants of the tumor.
Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)
Abnormalities in the connection between arteries and veins can cause dangerous bleeding. Radiosurgery is a non-invasive option to reduce the risk of hemorrhage.
Cavernous Malformations
These are vascular malformations in the brain that can cause bleeding. Radiosurgery is an effective treatment to reduce the risk of rupture.
Tumors of the Visual System
These include various types of tumors that affect the eyes and their associated structures. CyberKnife offers targeted treatment that minimizes damage to healthy eye tissue.
Multiple Metastases in Soft Tissue and Bone
Primary or Secondary Tumors
These include cancers that originate in the nervous system or that have metastasized. CyberKnife facilitates targeted treatment that is essential for improving clinical outcomes.
Vestibular Schwannomas
Benign tumors of the nerve that affect balance and hearing. Radiosurgery offers an effective treatment that avoids conventional surgery and preserves nerve function.
Acoustic Neuroma
Similar to vestibular schwannomas, they affect the same nerve and are treated with similar techniques using CyberKnife to avoid neurosurgical complications.
Trigeminal neuralgia
A disorder of the facial nerve that causes severe pain. CyberKnife can be used to treat the nerve without surgery, offering long-term pain relief.
Spinal Cord Pathologies
These disorders can include tumors and injuries affecting the spinal cord. CyberKnife's precision is crucial for treating these areas without compromising spinal cord function.