The evolution of neurosurgery in recent decades has been marked by the relentless pursuit of maximum therapeutic efficacy with minimal invasiveness. In this context, stereotactic radiosurgery has solidified itself as an indispensable tool, and the CyberKnife system represents the pinnacle of this technology. At Arráez Institute, we are proud to offer our patients access to this treatment modality, which allows us to address brain and spinal lesions with unprecedented precision, without the need for incisions or general anesthesia.

Unlike conventional radiotherapy, which delivers low doses of radiation over multiple sessions spanning weeks, lCyberKnife radiosurgery It delivers exquisitely focused high-energy radiation beams onto the target. The system uses a highly flexible robotic arm and a real-time image-guided system that compensates for even the subtlest patient movements, such as breathing, ensuring that surrounding healthy tissue receives minimal radiation dose.

CyberKnife in Malaga can treat various pathologies, including: * **Brain tumors:** Both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors in the brain. * **Spine tumors:** Tumors located in the spinal cord and surrounding areas. * **Lung cancer:** Early-stage non-small cell lung cancer and other lung tumors. * **Prostate cancer:** Particularly for patients who are not candidates for surgery or have recurrent prostate cancer. * **Liver cancer:** Both primary liver tumors and metastases. * **Pancreatic cancer:** In certain cases, for localized tumors. * **Head and neck cancers:** Tumors in the nasal cavity, sinuses, oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx. * **Metastases:** Cancer that has spread from the primary site to other parts of the body, such as bone metastases, lung metastases, and liver metastases. * **Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs):** Abnormal connections between arteries and veins, particularly in the brain. * **Trigeminal neuralgia:** A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face.

The versatility of the CyberKnife system allows for the treatment of a wide range of conditions, both benign and malignant, that previously required complex open surgeries or were considered inoperable due to their deep location or proximity to critical structures.

· Primary brain tumors and metastases

One of the most frequent applications is the treatment of brain tumors, both primary (such as meningiomas or acoustic neuromas) and metastatic. In the case of brain metastases, CyberKnife allows for the treatment of multiple lesions in a single session or a reduced number of fractions, offering excellent local control with optimal preservation of cognitive function. For acoustic neuromas, this technology is especially valuable, as it allows for the halting of tumor growth while, in many cases, preserving hearing and facial nerve function.

· Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)

Arteriovenous malformations are abnormal connections between arteries and veins that carry a risk of brain hemorrhage. In cases where open surgery or endovascular embolization present high risks, CyberKnife radiosurgery offers a safe alternative. The radiation causes progressive thickening of the walls of the abnormal vessels until they are completely occluded, a process that occurs gradually over one to three years.

Functional pathology: trigeminal neuralgia

Beyond tumors, CyberKnife has proven to be highly effective in treating functional disorders such as trigeminal neuralgia. This condition, characterized by excruciating and debilitating facial pain, can be treated by delivering a precise dose of radiation to the trigeminal nerve root, thereby interrupting pain signals without the need for invasive procedures at the base of the skull.

The Arráez Institute's Experience with Radiosurgery

At Arráez Institute, we understand that technology, no matter how advanced, is merely a tool in the hands of a specialist. Our approach is based on meticulous, personalized planning for each patient, integrating radiosurgery within a multidisciplinary treatment plan.

A patient-centered process

CyberKnife treatment begins with a planning phase in which high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) images are fused. Radiosurgery precisely delineates, with submillimeter accuracy, the tumor volume and the critical structures that must be protected. During the treatment session, the patient lies comfortably while the robotic arm moves silently around them, delivering radiation from hundreds of different angles.

Advantages of Robotic Radiosurgery (CyberKnife System)

The main benefit for the patient is the absence of pain and the speed of recovery. Since it does not require incisions or the use of stereotactic frames screwed into the skull (which are common in other radiosurgery systems), the procedure is much more comfortable. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the session, which is an immeasurable benefit to their quality of life.

Furthermore, the CyberKnife's ability to fractionate treatment (administer it in 2 to 5 sessions) allows for the treatment of larger lesions or those located very close to the optic nerves or the brainstem, minimizing the risk of complications that could occur with a single massive dose.

Innovation in the Service of Health

CyberKnife radiosurgery has transformed the landscape of neuro-oncological and functional treatment. In the Arraez Institute, We continue to bet on technological innovation as a means to achieve excellence in the care of our patients. This technique not only offers an effective alternative to conventional surgery in many cases, but it also opens new doors of hope for those patients with complex diagnoses.

If you or someone close to you is dealing with a brain or spinal condition, we invite you to learn more about the possibilities offered by robotic radiosurgery. The precision of the future is now within your reach in Málaga.

Ask our specialists at the Arráez Institute if CyberKnife radiosurgery is an option for you.