Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) is an advanced type of radiation technology. It is used to treat malignant or benign small to medium size tumors in the body, including the lung, liver, abdomen, spine, prostate, head and neck.

Using detailed imaging, computerized three-dimensional treatment planning, and precise treatment coordination, the radiation dose is delivered with extreme accuracy to limit effects on nearby organs.

Advantages of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy

  • Non-surgical, non-invasive and painless
  • Ideal for hard-to-reach tumors and those close to critical organs
  • Performed in an out-patient setting at one of NYOH’s offices
  • Shorter amount of treatment time, compared to traditional radiation regimen

Examples of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Use

  • Early stage lung cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Spinal tumors
  • Cancers that have metastasized to the brain, lung or liver

How Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Works

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy works in the same way as other forms of radiation treatment. The process does not actually remove the tumor, but the radiation causes it to shrink. By damaging the DNA of tumor cells, they cannot reproduce. Malignant and metastatic tumors may shrink more rapidly, even within a couple of months.

Specific technology is required to delivery SBRT treatment. Three-dimensional imaging is used to locate the tumor within the body and define the exact size and shape. This imaging guides the treatment plan and positioning of the patient for treatment. A linear accelerator is used to deliver treatment.