Austin CyberKnife Treats 1,000 Patients

AUSTIN, Texas, March 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Austin CyberKnife marks an important milestone in cancer care with the treatment of its 1,000th patient. University Medical Center Brackenridge, launched the CyberKnife program in 2005 and focused primarily on the treatment of brain tumors. Austin CyberKnife has since expanded the clinical applications of CyberKnife to treat other areas of the body, such as the lungs, kidney, liver and prostate.

"This milestone is a testament to the long term dedication of our staff to patients and their families in the cancer care community," said Dr. Doug Rivera, Austin CyberKnife medical director. "For nearly a decade we've worked to better serve patients in the Austin-area and beyond through not only the expansion of our treatment services, but also our physician network."

Arthur R., a brain tumor patient, is among the 1,000 patients treated at the center. He turned to Austin CyberKnife to complete treatment of a pituitary adenoma after two brain surgeries.

"My tumor was so large I had lost sense of taste and smell for three years," Arthur said. "Though the two surgeries were successful, the recuperative period was a major concern for me. With CyberKnife, nothing could have been as smooth or gentle. Most amazing of all, the process was completed in about 30 minutes and then I hopped into my car and had tacos for lunch."

Arthur completed treatment in three CyberKnife sessions and required no recovery time following each session. His experience is common among patients receiving stereotactic radiosurgery who seek a convenient and effective treatment option. The CyberKnife treats tumors with precisely targeted, high-dose radiation delivered in five or fewer treatments without incisions or sedation.

At Austin CyberKnife, patients experience the added benefit of a multidisciplinary approach. Through the center's collaborative partnerships, Austin CyberKnife radiation oncologists work closely with other cancer care specialists to evaluate each patient's diagnosis and medical history to provide guidance and options on the best course of treatment.

Clinical data has shown stereotactic radiosurgery to be an effective treatment for inoperable and high-risk patients with primary or metastatic tumors, tumors located close to critical organs or those located in areas of the body that were previously irradiated.

Austin CyberKnife at University Medical Center Brackenridge offers the only CyberKnife program in the greater Austin area. For more information, call (512) 324-8060.

CONTACT: Sarah Tiambeng, Zehnder Communications, (504) 962-3731, [email protected] 

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SOURCE Austin CyberKnife