How CyberKnife® Works

CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery
precisely targets a brain tumor in a
patient.

The CyberKnife® uses a combination of image guidance technology and computer-controlled robotics to continuously track, detect and correct for tumor and patient movements throughout the treatment, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

The Technology

The CyberKnife® machine is made up of a lightweight linear accelerator which is mounted on a robotic arm. Using image guidance cameras, the system locates the tumor. Real-time imaging allows for patient movement tracking with sub-millimeter spatial accuracy. Multiple radiation beams enter the body from different targeting positions and angles. All the beams intersect within the tumor or lesion where the cumulative dose is high enough to destroy the cancer cells. The system’s accuracy minimizes the amount of radiation affecting surrounding healthy tissue.

CyberKnife ® Procedures

CyberKnife® procedures are typically completed by a radiation oncologist and a surgeon working as a team. The radiation oncologist develops the treatment plan with the assistance of a surgeon, who provides anatomical consultation.

Thus far, Crozer-Keystone physicians and surgeons have treated patients for thoracic and head and neck cancers. But malignant and benign tumors in other areas, such as the spine, prostate, liver and pancreas, can also be treated with the CyberKnife®.