April is National Cancer Control Month, a national awareness holiday that aims to highlight advancements in prevention, detection and treatment of all cancers.
One important aspect of cancer control for patients is the treatment of metastases. Metastases occur when a cancer spreads from its original location to another place in the body. Though the cancer is in a new part of the body, the disease maintains the same type of cancer cells as the primary cancer.
Lung cancer is among the most common metastatic cancers and is often diagnosed at a later stage, which increases the likelihood that it may have spread, most commonly to lymph nodes, the brain or bones.
At Austin CyberKnife, we treat both lung cancer and metastatic tumors with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Using CyberKnife® technology, tumors are precisely targeted with high-dose radiation. This treatment method is important for patients with recurring metastatic tumors who may require a nonsurgical treatment method. Treatment is completed in five or fewer procedures without incisions or sedation and patients typically return to normal routines immediately following treatment.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.