Cyber or Gamma knife?

[No name]

Does anyone know if these are used for anything besides for the brain? Can they be used for lymph nodes in the neck or throat cancer where radiation does so much damage?

[Christine]

Hope this helps.

Hugs
Chris

[Jackie]

The site Christine sent you will answer a lot of questions, but I am in the process of setting up a CyberKnife procedure (I hope)and have a quick answer from the "busiest CyberKnife facility in the US", per Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Gamma Knife is limited to the head, and there are limitations to the size of the lesions it can be effective for. CyberKnife can be used on other parts of the body and often for lesions that can't be treated in another manner. For specific information, you might look at the Cyberknife's manufacturer's website (www.Accuray.com), go to facility locations, and call one of the numbers for the radiosurgical depts in an area closest to you. I left a message, received a return call, and found the responder to be very knowledgeable. There were some questions, however, that she said would be best posed to a physician. Good luck to you in the future!
Love, Jackie

[Valorie]

There is an "Ask the Doctors" message board on the "CyberKnife Patient Support Group" non-profit website where you can ask specific questions regarding CyberKnife treatment. Several CyberKnife experienced doctors monitor this message board and respond to questions.
This is the direct URL to the message board:
http://www.dream-tool.com/tools/messages.mv?index%2Baskthedoctors

[rose]

THank you Valorie for this very valuable web site. It is so reassuring to see other people dealing with similar issues and have a valid MD response.