Potential side effects of CyberKnife® treatment for spine cancer
Treatment with the CyberKnife System is well-tolerated with a low risk of toxicity. Side effects associated with CyberKnife treatment are usually mild and temporary. As with any radiation treatment, side effects can also be severe in some patients and lead to permanent injury or even death. Discuss your specific case with your physician(s) to fully understand the potential risks associated with your treatment. Possible side effects could include, but are not limited to:
- Fatigue
- Temporary skin changes such as redness, tenderness, itchiness, or rash
- Dysphagia (inability to eat) for patients with upper spine treatments
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) for patients with upper spine treatments
- Transient myelitis (may require corticosteroid treatment)
- Spinal cord injury
- Spinal cord (bone) injury
- Exposure to nearby tissue
- Tingling
Ask your doctor for more details about potential side effects associated with your specific radiation therapy treatment.
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