Leksell Icon vs Cyberknife

[marshfield71]

Hi,

Not sure if anyone knows this, but what are the practical differences between the latest gamma knife version (Icon) and CyberKnife?
Both utilize face mask vs headframe, both can have fractionated sessions,  I'm trying to decide and can't really figure it out.....

[susanjohnston]

I completed CyberKnife in June 2018. I chose that over GammaKnife because I did not want a head frame literally screwed into my head. With CyberKnife, there is a mesh mask made to fit your face which then snaps onto the treatment bed for the duration of each 40 minute treatment. It was easy. Susan Johnston.

Note: I removed your email address for your protection.  Clarice

[Freelander]

Marshfield71, it looks like you made your decision to go with GK rather than CK. 

What were some of the key reasons for choosing GK?

How are you doing a couple of months post treatment, and what is your mid and long term outlook? 

Hope you're comfortable, with results exceeding your expectations.

[notaclone13]

Susan,
I wonder if you would mind telling us where your CK procedure was performed and how you are doing now that you are 6 months  out.

[marshfield71]

Marshfield71, it looks like you made your decision to go with GK rather than CK. 

What were some of the key reasons for choosing GK?

How are you doing a couple of months post treatment, and what is your mid and long term outlook? 

Hope you're comfortable, with results exceeding your expectations.

Hey Freelander,

From what I gathered, there wasn't really any major differences between GK over CK. I chose GK because I'm in NY and Dr. Kondziolka is in NY, and he's one of the best. CK would've meant flying out to Stanford/Chang and I preferred staying close to home. Also, GK was one session vs multiple sessions for CK, I felt like I just wanted to get it over with in one shot.
In hindsight, at least until this point, no regrets with my decision. The actual procedure itself went smoothly, most difficult part personally was the MRI with the mask on, as it is quite loud and lengthy, and I didn't have enough medication in me to be comfortable with my head unmovable.
Things have been pretty good so far. Fatigue is there, but nothing too bad. Hearing is about the same most days, tinnitus maybe a bit worse, feeling of fullness etc. Overall grateful that I found the AN when I did and that its taken care of. Hopeful for the future!

[kestes]

I just had GK with Dr. Sheehan for 14mm on Nov. 2.  They have the new Icon at UVA.  I Dr. Sheehan the difference and he said one of the main differences is right before the GK radiation, they now have attached a CT scan.  So they literally run the CT scan minutes before your radiation starts to make sure you are absolutely in the correct position.  Also one of the fascinating things Dr. Sheehan does is bring you a copy of your treatment plan.  It shows the tumor from 4 different angles and how they will attack it coming in different ways.  It was incredible to see the preciseness.  The tumor was outlined in yellow and it showed exactly where the beams would go.  I wish I could attach a picture of mine!   

[Freelander]

Marshfield and kestes, thanks for the update.  With the ICON, it is my understanding that smaller, fractionated doses can be given, as in CK, and that a mask may be used, as in CK, instead of a head frame. Did Dr. K mention that before your treatment?   I like the ICON's new capacity to include a CT while having therapy, which, I recall, also exists for CK. 

Relative to the symptoms you both had before radiation, I hope your recovery and quality of life are at least as good, and improving.  Isn't that the bottom line for anyone choosing an intervention? It's a big step, best wishes moving ahead.

 

[kestes]

I am not sure if I could have had the mask or fractioned.  I never asked about it and Sheehan never mentioned it.  I had all the fatigue, tinnitus, high pitch hearing loss and balance issues before and I have them after GK, but I am ok with it all.  I am doing incredibly well 10 weeks out.  5 weeks out we flew to Utah and hiked 25 miles through Southern Utah with no problems whatsoever.  The only thing I seem to notice is my hearing is a little worse, but it is all part of the process  and will get hearing aids when I can - if I end up needing them.