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Changing the Landscape of Cancer Care and Tumor Treatment in Central New York

Frequently asked Questions

What is Stereotactic Radiosurgery?

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-surgical medical procedure that involves using extremely high doses of radiation to very small areas of the body.  The radiation is delivered from many different angles so the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor is spared.  Since the part of the body that is getting radiated is so small, it is extremely important that the patient remain perfectly still. Often times, this is accomplished through painful head frames.

How is CyberKnife® Radiosurgery different?

Through the use of continuous imaging, the CyberKnife® of HOA is able to compensate for patient movement, making uncomfortable head frames obsolete. Also, the CyberKnife® of HOA uses a robotic arm as a radiation source, so many different body parts can treated.  This makes the CyberKnife® of HOA much more convenient than the gamma knife, or other methods of stereotactic radiosurgery.

How Does the CyberKnife® of HOA system work?

The CyberKnife® of HOA uses x-ray imaging technology similar to those used for cruise missile guidance, to accurately locate the tumor/lesion within the patient.  The computer uses this information to determine how or if to alter the 1000 or more radiation beams that are targeting the tumor/lesion.  Each time a patient moves, the computer adjusts the beam arrangement to match the new position of the tumor/lesion. 

Since the CyberKnife® of HOA system is regularly taking new images and adjusting, the patient is free of the invasive metal headframes that are often used for other radiosurgery systems. Because of this constant readjusting, you can feel confident that radiation is being delivered with sub-millimeter accuracy.

What can the CyberKnife® of HOA treat?

CyberKnife® of HOA uses technology that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat tumors and lesions all over the body. 

CyberKnife® is currently used to treat tumors or lesions of the:

• Head
• Neck
• Spine
• Lung
• Pancreas
• Kidneys
• Pelvis
• Others

How do I know if CyberKnife® is Right for me?

Each case is different.  Most patients who qualify for traditional radiosurgery techniques would benefit from CyberKnife® Radiosurgery. Some cases in which CyberKnife® would be the best option include areas that have been previously treated, areas in very close proximity to extremely radiosensitive structures, such as the optic nerves and the spine. CyberKnife® of HOA is also an important option to consider when a patient is unable to receive traditional surgery.

Your surgeon or oncologist will carefully review your case and decide with you if CyberKnife® is the appropriate choice. 

What can I Expect During my CyberKnife® of HOA Experience?

The treatment process consists of 7 steps. These steps can be done in one day, but usually take place over the course of several business days.

• determining candidacy for cyberknife
• consult/intake
• treatment setup/positioning
• imaging
• treatment planning
• treatment delivery
• follow up

In addition to these steps you can expect a warm and inviting staff that offers respectful and comfortable service.

Is CyberKnife® Covered by my Insurance Company?

Since CyberKnife® is considered a surgical treatment, most insurance companies require that you obtain authorization prior to treatment. Medicare and most private insurance companies generally cover CyberKnife® procedures.  Our billing and insurance specialists will be more than happy to help you or your loved one obtain the proper information necessary to continue your journey.

How Can I Find out More About CyberKnife® of HOA?

We can be reached by phone or email:

Phone: (315) 472-7504

Email: Cyberknife@hoacny.com

Contact Person: Sue Teffar

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