CyberKnife
Pronunciation: SY-ber-nyfe
A robotic radiosurgery system that delivers highly precise radiation beams while tracking tumor motion in real-time.
Full Definition
CyberKnife is a frameless stereotactic radiosurgery and radiotherapy system that combines a lightweight linear accelerator mounted on a robotic arm with real-time tumor tracking technology. The system uses orthogonal X-ray imaging and respiratory motion tracking to continuously adjust beam delivery, allowing for submillimeter accuracy without the need for invasive head frames or rigid immobilization devices. This technology enables treatment of tumors throughout the body, including moving targets in the lungs and liver, with extreme precision while sparing healthy surrounding tissue.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as a proprietary system name; often confused with Gamma Knife which uses different technology.
In Context
- "The patient was scheduled for CyberKnife treatment of the pancreatic lesion due to its proximity to critical structures." — Treatment planning report
- "CyberKnife's real-time tracking capability makes it ideal for treating lung tumors that move with respiration." — Clinical consultation note