What is Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive form of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) utilized to precisely target tumors and other abnormalities in various parts of the body, such as the brain, neck, lungs, liver, and spine. Unlike traditional surgery, SRS surgery does not involve any incisions. Instead, it employs advanced 3D imaging technology to deliver highly concentrated radiation beams to the affected area with pinpoint accuracy. This technique is commonly performed by radiation oncologists and neurosurgeons to treat small cancerous tumors, benign growths, and brain abnormalities, including metastatic brain tumors, meningiomas, and chordomas.
By precisely targeting the affected area, stereotactic radiosurgery minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues and reduces the risk of infection, making it a safer option for patients, particularly those who have recently undergone surgery. The decision to undergo SRS is based on individual health factors and the specific medical condition being treated, rather than a predetermined age threshold.
Types of stereotactic radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery types include:
- Gamma Knife for brain tumors
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for small cancerous tumors
- Proton therapy for central nervous system cancers
- Linear Accelerator (LINAC) for image-guided and intensity-modulated radiation therapy
| Procedure Name | Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Radiation therapy |
| Type of Anesthesia | Local Anesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | 1 to 4 hours |
| Recovery Duration | No extensive recovery required |
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
How should I prepare for this procedure?
A medical review is conducted to determine the appropriateness of a treatment, including any medical history, allergies, and claustrophobia. Imaging tests, such as CT or MRI, are used to identify tumor locations. Treatment planning involves simulating treatment, determining radiation dosage, and preparing immobilization devices to ensure radiation prior to the procedure.
What happens during Stereotactic Radiosurgery
The process of stereotactic radiosurgery depends on the type of treatment and the part of the body needed. Gamma Knife treatment for brain tumors involves the team assisting patients in stereotactic body radiation therapy, demonstrating the intercom system, placing immobilization devices, and ensuring they don’t feel anything during the treatment but may hear machinery moving.
What happens after stereotactic radiosurgery?
Following the procedure, the head frame may be removed, and minor bleeding or tenderness may occur at the pin sites. If headache, nausea, or vomiting occur, appropriate medications will be given. After the procedure, eating and drinking are permitted.
Stereotactic radiosurgery recovery
Most of the time, the procedure will be done on an outpatient basis. The recovery might take a very less time, and later, side effects like fatigue, nausea, and vomiting typically subside within a few days to a few weeks, depending on individual experiences.
Post-procedure care
The radiation oncologist will give detailed instructions on rest, activity limitations, medications, and follow-up appointments post-surgery. Pins holding frames in place will be removed before leaving the hospital, with bandages possibly covering the pin sites. Washing hair is allowed after 24 hours, but hair treatments like coloring or gels should wait until the pins heal. Anchors are removed after treatments, and proper wound care is essential. Hair washing should wait until staples or sutures are removed.
Benefits of Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) at Yashoda Hospitals
- Precise Targeting
- Minimal Hospitalizations
- High Accuracy
- Non-Surgical
- Risk-Free
- Outpatient Procedure
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