Both CyberKnife and Proton Therapy are forms of targeted radiation treatments used to treat prostate cancer. But there are some distinct differences.
CyberKnife For Prostate Cancer
Let’s start by talking about CyberKnife, that is what the experts at the CyberKnife Center of Miami use to treat prostate cancer patients.
CyberKnife is a highly focused radiotherapy also known as Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy or (SBRT). CyberKnife is among one of the most advanced forms of radiation treatment available. It uses image guided technology to target and destroy prostate cancer while leaving the healthy tissue virtually unharmed.
Unlike traditional radiation, the CyberKnife delivers high doses of radiation in many fewer treatments. It is a non-invasive, painless treatment that may be an alternative to surgery in many cases.
CyberKnife Treatment Advantages:
- CyberKnife has a 97% cure rate for prostate cancer
- Few to no side effects. If you do experience side effects over-the-counter medication can help and typically subsides quickly
- You can resume normal activities immediately following treatment
- No catheter is needed
- No anesthesia is need
- Each treatment takes 30 to 45 minutes
- Treatment can be completed in about 10 days
- Preservation of sexual function and incontinence remain the same for most men after treatment
- The CyberKnife radiation beams are so extremely precise there is less risk of side effects including impotence and incontinence
- CyberKnife is also a great alternative treatment option for certain patients. Individuals who are not candidates for surgery, hormone or chemotherapy, those who don’t want surgery, or those who have been previously treated with radiation, may be a candidate for CyberKnife radiation treatments.
- Fewer treatments than standard radiation. CyberKnife treats prostate cancer in 5 treatments over 2 weeks, unlike the low doses of conventional radiation therapy that require 40-to-45 treatments over the course of 2-to-3 months.
- It is covered by most insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid
Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Now let’s talk about Proton Therapy for prostate cancer.
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Oncology in December of 2019, proton beam radiation therapy may be safe and just as effective as traditional radiation.
While traditional radiation delivers radiation beams to the tumor, the radiation spreads beyond the tumor site which can damage nearby healthy tissue. Proton therapy is more targeted reducing the risk of damage to the area being treated according to an article published by the National Cancer Institute.
- Proton therapy involves the use of charged particles called protons rather than the x-rays that are used in conventional radiation therapy. As part of the treatment, also called proton beam therapy, doctors direct cancer-fighting energy to precise locations within the body.
- With Proton therapy, doctors determine the point in a patient’s body where the proton releases its energy – that maximizes exposure to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to normal tissue.
- Proton beam therapy uses lower doses of radiation compared to CyberKnife. Therefore, requiring more treatments over a four-to-six-week period.
- Proton therapy usually requires 20-to-25 treatments with typical out-patient treatments lasting less than five minutes each.
- Side effects like fatigue are usually minor and temporary.
- Proton therapy is also more costly and might not be covered by insurance according to the National Cancer Institute article.
- Because Proton Therapy delivers a lower dosage of radiation but is very pinpointed many radiation oncologists believe it is better for treating children with cancer, including brain tumors.
Prostate Cancer Treatment Near Me
Proton therapy and CyberKnife are both options for prostate cancer treatment. But the experts at CyberKnife Miami recommend getting a second opinion and a consultation to see which treatment is right for you – from a lifestyle and cost perspective.
We are happy to be your second opinion and answer any questions you may have about all prostate cancer treatment options, and which one is right for your particular case.
If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, call CyberKnife Miami for a consultation. Our goal is to get you back to your life – cancer free with minimal to no downtime.
If you would like to find out more about prostate cancer treatment with CyberKnife, call us at 305-279-2900 or go to our prostate cancer website now for more information.