CyberKnife is a technology, not a diagnosis
Heidelberg uses stereotactic and CyberKnife techniques for selected targets such as brain metastases, spinal tumors, early lung tumors, liver tumors and oligometastatic disease. Whether a lesion is suitable requires radiation-oncology review and precise imaging.
Planning quality is as important as the machine name
Heidelberg describes CT and advanced MRI integration for target definition and the use of PET information in selected cases. International patients should send original imaging, not only written reports, when the center requests it.
Records useful for review
A concise request should define the treatment question and prior radiation exposure.
- Exact diagnosis and pathology
- Recent MRI/CT/PET images and reports
- Previous radiotherapy plan and dose records
- Operative reports
- Systemic-treatment history
- Current neurologic or other symptoms
- Performance status and major comorbidities
One session is not guaranteed
Some stereotactic treatments are delivered in one session while others use several fractions. The number depends on lesion size, location, nearby critical structures and the treatment plan. Do not book travel based on a generic 'one-day radiosurgery' claim.
Ask what the clinical alternative is
A useful consultation should explain why stereotactic radiation is being considered instead of observation, surgery, conventional radiotherapy or another systemic/local treatment, and how response will be assessed afterward.
Official sources
Sources last checked 2026-09-07.