Resources

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November 23, 2024 - November is National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. During the month, people throughout the country come together to support the lung cancer community and raise awareness about the disease. Lung cancer is a cancer that forms in tissues of the lung, usually in the cells lining air passages. The two main…

October is Facial Pain Awareness Month

October 22, 2024 - Facial Pain Awareness Month is observed every October. The Facial Pain Association (FPA) raises awareness about facial pain during this month by sharing information, stories, and promoting events. Facial pain can range from acute to chronic and can be caused by tissue or nerve injury. One of the conditions that…

10 Early Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer Every Man Should Know

September 24, 2024 - Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, but thanks to advancements in PSA testing and treatment, survival rates have dramatically improved. In fact, the prostate cancer death rate dropped by half between 1993 and 2013. It has since stabilized. According to the American Cancer Society, this…

Dr. Gokhale Discusses Trigeminal Neuralgia on Daytime Columbus

July 16, 2024 - Imagine smiling or chewing triggering electroshock-like pain on the side of your face. For people suffering from Trigeminal Neuralgia, or TN, these normal movements can do just that. Even though TN is rare, its intense pain greatly affects the quality of life for those diagnosed with the condition. Our radiation…

Dr. Widman Discusses Prostate Cancer on Daytime Columbus

July 2, 2024 - According to the American Cancer Society, over 10,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in Ohio this year.  It is the second most common cancer in American men, but one that has a high survival rate thanks in part to the screening and treatment options offered for the…

National Cancer Survivor Month: Celebrate, Advocate, Support

June 14, 2024 - June is National Cancer Survivor Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the millions of thrivers, inspire those newly diagnosed, and, most importantly, celebrate life. During the month, cancer survivors and supporters in communities around the world unite to celebrate life and raise awareness of the challenges faced by those…

Prostate Cancer: Know Your Options

April 26, 2024 - Thanks to advancements in research and treatment methods, men diagnosed with prostate cancer have more options and resources available to them than ever before. Whether you or a loved one has been newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, talking to your doctor to learn more about the disease and treatments that…

Understanding Brain Tumor Treatment Options

March 11, 2024 - According to the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS), it is estimated that approximately 94,390 new cases of primary malignant and non-malignant brain and other central nervous system (CNS) tumors will be diagnosed in the United States in 2023. What patients may not know is that a…

Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment: CyberKnife vs. Gamma Knife

February 20, 2024 - Trigeminal neuralgia is a painfully debilitating neuropathic disorder. Commonly referred to as TN, the condition is a disorder of the trigeminal, or fifth cranial, nerve that controls sensation in the face. TN patients experience episodes of intense, electroshock-like pain on either side of the face, in the forehead or along…

Dr. Gokhale Discusses Trigeminal Neuralgia on Good Day Extra

Watch Abhay Gokhale, MD, radiation oncologist at Columbus CyberKnife, discuss Trigeminal Neuralgia, how the condition is treated with the CyberKnife® system, and the benefits of CyberKnife treatment with the team at Good Day Extra.

Dr. Widman Discusses Prostate Cancer on Good Day Extra

Watch Columbus CyberKnife Medical Director, Douglas W. Widman, MD, discuss prostate cancer (risk factors, signs and symptoms, current stats, and diagnosis) and how the disease is treated with the CyberKnife® system on Good Day Extra.

Second Opinion Services

Dr. Widman, a Radiation Oncologist at Columbus CyberKnife, discusses the importance of a second opinion and highlights the CyberKnife technology for prostate cancer.

Break Free from TN Pain

Vernon Traxler endured the agony of trigeminal neuralgia for over 16 years. Discover how the the CyberKnife brought him relief. Watch him share his journey and how he feels after the treatment.

Stop the Severe Suffering

Appearing on Daytime Columbus, our radiation oncologist, Dr. Abhay Gokhale, discusses how the CyberKnife system treats the excruciating pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia.

Dr. Heuser's Journey

Discover how Dr. Heuser, a highly respected general surgeon, made the pivotal decision to choose the CyberKnife technology in his personal battle against prostate cancer.

Precision. Power. Victory.

CyberKnife targets tumors with pinpoint accuracy, delivering high-dose radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissue, resulting in fewer side effects.

Precise Prostate Treatment

Watch Dr. Douglas W. Widman, our Medical Director, on Daytime Columbus as he explains how we can treat prostate cancer in five or fewer treatments using the CyberKnife system.

Our Patient Testimonials

Watch our patients share their success stories with the CyberKnife prostate cancer treatment and the exceptional care they received at Columbus CyberKnife.

Second Opinion, Peace of Mind

Gain confidence in your treatment choices with a second opinion from Columbus CyberKnife. We offer advanced treatment options, prioritizing your health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to help you find the answers you need

 

General Questions

Is the CyberKnife treatment covered by insurance?
The coverage for CyberKnife treatment may vary depending on your insurance plan and the specific medical condition being treated. It is recommended to consult with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Where can I find a facility that offers the CyberKnife system in Ohio?
The CyberKnife system is available in Ohio at Columbus CyberKnife.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Please complete the webform on this page, and our team will be in touch to answer your questions and discuss the next steps.
 

CyberKnife system

What is the CyberKnife system?
The CyberKnife system is a non-invasive, robotic radiosurgery system used to treat tumors and other medical conditions with precision and accuracy. It utilizes advanced image-guided technology and robotic arm movements to destroy targeted cells with exceptional accuracy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
How does it work?
The CyberKnife operates by directing a series of high-dose radiation beams from different angles outside the body. These beams are carefully programmed to come together precisely at the site of the tumor and are tracked in real-time. While each individual beam is designed to be safe for healthy tissue, their combined strength at the tumor location is powerful enough to destroy the cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
What conditions can be treated with the CyberKnife system?
The CyberKnife can treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
  • Cancerous tumors (such as those in the brain, spine, lung, liver, pancreas, prostate, and kidney)
  • Benign tumors
  • Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
  • Trigeminal neuralgia
  • Movement disorders (such as essential tremor)
  • Recurrent tumors after previous radiation treatment
This technology is particularly beneficial for treating tumors near complex organs or with irregular shapes as its robotic precision ensures that the surrounding healthy tissues and vital organs are spared from radiation.
Is the CyberKnife system appropriate for all patients?
While the CyberKnife system can be utilized for a wide range of patients, it is particularly beneficial for individuals with tumors or lesions that are challenging to access through conventional surgical methods. Moreover, it is a suitable alternative for patients who may not be eligible for surgery due to factors like their overall health status or the tumor's specific location.
What are some of the advanced features of the CyberKnife system?
The CyberKnife system stands out from other systems due to several unique features:
  • Robotic Precision: The CyberKnife system employs a robotic arm that can move with great freedom, enabling precise radiation delivery from virtually any direction.
  • Real-Time Tracking: It uses real-time imaging to continuously monitor the patient's position and adjust the radiation beam accordingly, ensuring accuracy even if the patient moves during treatment.
  • Intelligent Tumor Tracking: The system's advanced software can track and adjust the radiation beam in response to the tumor's motion, such as breathing or other organ movements.
What are some key advantages for patients offered by the CyberKnife system?
Patients can benefit from several key factors associated with the CyberKnife system, including:
  • No surgery
  • No anesthesia
  • No hospital stay
  • No pain
  • No rehabilitation
  • No risk of bleeding or infection
  • No head frame
  • Minimal to no side effects
  • Quick return to normal everyday life
  • Shorter treatment program compared to conventional radiotherapy
 

CyberKnife Treatment

What is the typical duration of a CyberKnife treatment session?
The length of a CyberKnife treatment session can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the targeted area. On average, sessions can range from approximately 30 minutes to an hour. It's important to note that the entire treatment course may span one to five sessions, typically spread out over several days or weeks.
Does the CyberKnife procedure cause any pain?
The CyberKnife procedure is typically painless as it is a non-invasive treatment method that does not involve incisions or invasive procedures. While patients may experience some discomfort from maintaining a still position during the treatment session, anesthesia is not necessary.
Are there any side effects with CyberKnife treatment?
Generally, CyberKnife treatment is gentle and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, it's possible for some patients to experience temporary effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, or mild nausea. These side effects are typically short-lived and tend to resolve on their own.
What is the level of effectiveness associated with CyberKnife treatment?
CyberKnife treatment has demonstrated impressive tumor control rates and comparable survival rates to alternative treatment methods. However, the effectiveness of the treatment depends on the unique circumstances of each case and the specific condition being addressed. To accurately evaluate your individual situation, we recommend scheduling a consultation with us.
How does the tumor react after CyberKnife treatment?
During radiosurgery, such as with the CyberKnife system, the tumor is effectively eradicated by precisely delivering high-dose radiation to the targeted area. This radiation works by damaging the DNA within the tumor cells, thereby inhibiting their ability to divide and proliferate. As time progresses, the affected cells gradually lose their capability to survive and reproduce, ultimately resulting in the destruction of the tumor.

It's important to note that certain tumors may exhibit signs of recurrence or progression. Thus, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the tumor's status and make informed decisions regarding further treatment or management.
 

Radiation Therapy

What sets CyberKnife radiotherapy apart from traditional radiotherapy methods?
CyberKnife radiotherapy differs from traditional radiotherapy in several key ways:
  • Pinpoint Accuracy: CyberKnife uses real-time imaging and tracking to continuously adjust the radiation delivery, ensuring precise targeting of the tumor throughout the treatment.
  • Minimized Radiation Exposure: The system's advanced targeting capabilities minimize radiation exposure to healthy tissues surrounding the tumor, reducing the risk of complications.
  • Non-Invasive: Unlike traditional surgery, CyberKnife is a non-invasive treatment that does not require incisions or anesthesia. It delivers radiation externally.
  • Frameless: CyberKnife utilizes advanced image-guidance technology, eliminating the need for rigid immobilization frames that are used in traditional radiosurgery.
  • Fewer Treatment Sessions: CyberKnife typically requires fewer treatment sessions than traditional radiotherapy, often completing treatment in just a few sessions instead of weeks.
Who determines if I am a good candidate for radiotherapy?
As a patient, the decision regarding the suitability of radiosurgery as a treatment option is made by a team of qualified medical professionals. They evaluate your unique case, considering factors such as the nature of your condition, the location of the tumor, and your overall health. Based on their assessment, they provide an expert recommendation, guiding you towards the most appropriate course of treatment.
What type of radiotherapy does the CyberKnife use?
The CyberKnife system utilizes a type of radiotherapy known as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). The CyberKnife system is specifically designed to deliver highly precise and targeted radiation to tumors in various parts of the body, including the brain and other areas outside the brain. It employs advanced imaging and robotic technology to track and continuously adjust the radiation beams in real-time, ensuring accurate and effective treatment delivery. The CyberKnife system is a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgery for certain tumors and allows for the delivery of high doses of radiation with enhanced precision and fewer treatment sessions.
How does stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) differ from conventional radiation therapy?
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) differs from conventional radiation therapy by utilizing multiple beams that converge precisely at the tumor site from various angles. This targeted approach allows for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered to the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. As a result, SRT reduces the risk of side effects. Additionally, SRT typically requires fewer treatment sessions than conventional radiation therapy, making it a more time-efficient option.
What is the difference between Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT), Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are all forms of precise and targeted radiation therapy.

Here are the key differences between them:

Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT): SRT refers to the broader category of treatments that use precise imaging and targeting techniques to deliver radiation to tumors with high accuracy. It can be used to treat tumors in various locations throughout the body, including the brain.

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): SBRT is a specific type of SRT that focuses on treating tumors in the body outside of the brain. It delivers a highly concentrated dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to nearby healthy tissues. SBRT is typically administered in a few treatment sessions, usually between 1 and 8.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): SRS is a form of SRT that specifically targets tumors in the brain. Unlike traditional surgery, SRS does not involve making an incision. Instead, it uses multiple beams of radiation to precisely target the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy brain tissue. SRS is typically delivered in a single session, although in some cases, multiple SRS treatments may be needed.

In summary, SRT is the broader category that encompasses both SBRT and SRS. SBRT focuses on treating tumors in the body, while SRS specifically targets brain tumors. Both SBRT and SRS employ precise targeting to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.