Hi, Pat ~
Steve is correct. FSR is 'low-dose' radiation very specifically calibrated to irradiate the tumor. I underwent 26 FSR treatments in the fall of 2006 as a follow-up to a partial tumor resection. My neurosurgeon's plan was to 'debulk' my large AN (4.5 cm) and in the process, cut off it's blood supply. That surgery was successful and my pre-op symptoms disappeared. 3 months later, with time for my brain to heal (my doctor's words) I had the FSR treatments. I was told by my doctor that I would receive the lowest amount of radiation possible that would still be effective. It was carefully 'mapped', using recent MRI and CT scans, by my neurosurgeon and a radiation oncologist. The goal was to do minimum damage to surrounding brain tissue while 'zapping' the (remaining) AN and effectively 'killing' it's DNA (it's ability to reproduce more tumor cells).
The 26 FSR sessions were performed at an outpatient cancer center. They took about 45 minutes each and were completely painless. I suffered no adverse reactions to the radiation and drove myself to and from each session, a distance of over 60 miles, round trip. I'm pleased to report that the FSR treatment were successful. My last MRI showed necrosis and some shrinkage and I'm doing fine.
I won't attempt to compare or debate the efficacy of FSR, GK and CK because I'm not an expert in any of these radiation techniques and of course, I'm not a doctor. I can only offer you my experience, which was successful in my case. If a radiation oncologist recommends FSR, he must have a good reason. I suggest you ask him.
Jim
