Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Despite its name, stereotactic radiosurgery is not an operation and does not require an incision. Instead, our doctors deliver high-powered, narrowly targeted radiation therapy through special machines — an innovative surgical alternative for many patients. Radiosurgery can effectively treat several neurological conditions, including:

  • Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): Radiosurgery is an alternative to resection (removal) for some malformations, with the radiation closing the abnormal, blood vessels. Endovascular embolization is sometimes performed first.
  • Trigeminal neuralgia: Radiosurgery is an alternative to microvascular decompression for some cases, with the radiation slowly forming a lesion and blocking pain signals.
  • Pituitary tumors: Radiosurgery is an alternative to transsphenoidal endoscopic resection for some tumors.
  • Brain tumors: Radiosurgery is an alternative to traditional surgery for some tumors.

Gamma Knife and CyberKnife Radiosurgery

We work with radiation therapists to provide the latest radiosurgery systems, choosing the best approach for your particular condition. While the Gamma Knife and CyberKnife systems use different technology, they deliver similar benefits: 

  • Pain-free, non-invasive procedure
  • Outpatient visit with no general anesthesia needed and no hospitalization
  • Precisely focused beams spare healthy tissue — a difference with traditional radiation therapy
  • Complete customization for each patient
  • Little or no recovery time required

Stereotactic Radiosurgery: What to Expect

While the type of machine our neurosurgeons use depends on your condition, the basic steps are the same:

  • Advanced imaging tests show the location of the tumor, lesion or abnormality (your doctor may also inject contrast dye for an angiogram if targeting blood vessels).
  • Software helps your surgeon develop an individualized, precise treatment plan that coordinates radiation delivery by the machine.
  • You lie on the machine’s table. With the Gamma Knife, you wear a frame on your head and the table slides into the machine. For the CyberKnife, you wear a mask and a robot arm rotates around the table.
  • Your treatment team can see you on camera throughout the procedure, and you can communicate with them through microphones and speakers.
  • The radiation is delivered in precisely targeted doses and locations.

Contact Us

For more information or for a physician referral, please call (813) 644-4322.