Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive procedure that delivers precisely focused radiation therapy to treat tumors or abnormalities in the brain, spine, or other parts of the body. Despite its name, SRS is not surgery in the traditional sense, as it does not involve any incisions. Instead, multiple beams of radiation are accurately directed at the target area, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This high level of precision allows for effective treatment with minimal side effects. SRS is commonly used to address various conditions, including small or inaccessible tumors, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), trigeminal neuralgia, and other medical issues. The targeted approach of SRS helps ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes while preserving healthy tissue, making it a valuable option in modern medical practice.
About Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a specialized treatment often used for specific medical conditions such as brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), trigeminal neuralgia, and other anatomical abnormalities. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, which is typically administered in multiple sessions, SRS is delivered in a single session, allowing for concentrated radiation treatment.
The procedure usually results in short-term side effects, which may include fatigue, headaches, nausea, and temporary swelling or irritation at the treatment site. Long-term adverse effects can include radiation-induced changes in brain tissue, such as brain alterations or radiation strokes, although these occurrences are rare. Despite these potential risks, the benefits of SRS often outweigh the risks, especially when regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals are maintained to monitor for any side effects and ensure the treatment remains effective.
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) employs radiation from multiple sites around the body, allowing the tumor to receive a sufficient dose while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue, thereby reducing the risk of side effects.
Procedure of Stereotactic Radiosurgery
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Imaging: High-resolution imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans, are utilized to precisely locate the tumor or abnormality and map its relationship with surrounding structures.
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Treatment Planning: Using specialized software, radiation oncologists and medical physicists devise a treatment plan. They determine the optimal dosage and angles for delivering radiation to the target area while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
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Immobilization: To ensure accuracy during treatment, the patient is secured using a custom-made head frame, mask, or body mold. This step is crucial for maintaining a consistent position throughout the procedure.
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Treatment Delivery: During the treatment, the patient lies comfortably on a treatment table while a machine, such as a linear accelerator or gamma knife, delivers highly targeted radiation beams to the designated area of the tumor or abnormality. The radiation is aimed from multiple angles to converge on the target while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues.
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Monitoring and Follow-Up: After the treatment session, patients are monitored for a period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to evaluate the treatment’s effectiveness and to monitor for any potential side effects or recurrence of the condition.