Radioablation

With radioablation (also known as stereotactic ablation or ablative radiotherapy), in one, or just a few treatments, known as fractions, precisely targeted, high doses of radiation are delivered to  brain tumors. When the radiation is delivered in a single fraction, it's known as sterotactic radiosurgery (SRS). When it's delivered in multiple fractions, it's known as stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT). The goal with radioablation is to ablate, or destroy, the tumor(s) while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This treatment allows doctors to reach tumors deep inside the cranium (skull) without the risks of surgery. Radiation beams are delivered to the target from different angles based on 3D images pinpointing the tumor’s exact location. The treatments require no incision and cause little discomfort and few of the risks typically associated with surgery.

The type of stereotactic treatment performed depends on the particulars of each patient’s cancer type and location. Our radiation oncologists perform stereotactic treatment using a variety of technologies. This treatment is often recommended over conventional radiation therapy for its ability to precisely pinpoint the tumor and spare healthy brain tissue.