CyberKnife success in prostate cancer study

RESULTS FROM THE PACE-A study, which was led by Medical Director Professor Nicholas van As, have revealed that men with prostate cancer are less likely to experience urinary and sexual side effects two years after treatment with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) – an advanced type of radiotherapy – than with surgery.

SBRT delivers high doses of radiation to patients over a much shorter timeframe than traditional radiotherapy, either via the leading-edge CyberKnife machine or a modern linear accelerator.

Trial patient Alexander Szczerbiuk, 73, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in November 2017. He was treated with SBRT on one of The Royal Marsden’s two CyberKnife machines, which were funded by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

He said: “My biggest concern was incontinence, as I really couldn’t bear the thought of having to use urinary pads. This meant I was delighted to be selected for CyberKnife, which, as a minimally invasive option, was a no-brainer.

“In terms of treatment, you couldn’t wish for anything better. It was only two months from my diagnosis to the last of my five SBRT sessions. I was pleased as punch everything happened so quickly and, fortunately, the side effects have been minimal.

“The Royal Marsden is superb. From the understanding staff and the excellent treatment to the regular follow-up care, I can’t fault the hospital.

“I’m very grateful for the treatment I received and, as a way of giving back, I’ve left a donation in my Will to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.”