Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy in Staten Island, NY
Great strides have been made in cancer treatment over the last few decades. Among these advances is stereotactic body radiotherapy. This cutting-edge technique allows physicians to minimize radiation exposure to healthy tissue, delivering excellent treatment outcomes with fewer side effects. Richmond University Medical Center offers this and other treatments at our Center for Cancer Care in Staten Island, New York. Learn more about this innovative treatment method.
What Is Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy?
Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), also called stereotactic ablative radiotherapy, is an innovative variation of radiation oncology. Rather than a single beam, SBRT uses multiple, smaller beams from different angles. This delivers the same dosage to the cancer while reducing the amount received by healthy tissue. There are two types of SBRT:
- Proton beam
- Linear accelerator
The type of SBRT recommended depends on the location of the cancer. Patients work with their oncologist to identify the best treatment for their unique case.
How SBRT Works
SBRT takes between 15 minutes up to an hour, depending on the location and size of the cancer. Treatment is painless and usually performed without anesthesia. This allows us to perform treatment as an outpatient procedure, meaning that patients do not need to stay at the hospital.
During treatment, the physician uses 3D imaging to precisely target the tumor with multiple beams of concentrated radiation. The radiation attacks DNA found in cancer cells, breaking it down. This keeps cells from dividing, stopping the tumor’s spread and potentially shrinking it.
Cancers Treated with SBRT
SBRT is used to treat a wide variety of cancers, particularly those in or near vital organs. Richmond University Medical Center uses it for the following cancer types:
- Lung cancer
- Liver cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
This treatment may also be used for benign (non-cancerous) tumors.
Side Effects of SBRT
SBRT is designed to minimize radiation exposure to healthy tissue, allowing for successful treatments with fewer side effects. However, patients may still experience some symptoms, including:
- Dry, itchy, or irritated skin
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swelling at the treatment site
- Fragile bones
- Swelling in limbs
- Changes in bladder or bowel activity
- Breathing issues
If a patient is experiencing side effects from treatment, they should speak with their physician. Medications are available to reduce symptoms.
Receive Cancer Treatment at Richmond University Medical Center
Access stereotactic body radiotherapy at Richmond University Medical Center, where we’re committed to delivering compassionate, comprehensive care for patients with cancer in Staten Island, NY. Our physicians are equipped with the latest knowledge and technologies, letting them guide patients and their families toward the right decisions regarding their cancer treatment. Contact us to learn more about our cancer treatments.
