Frameless, image-guided stereotactic radiosurgery.
OBJECTIVES: To trace the evolution from frame-based to frameless image-guided SRS, to discuss the basic radiobiological principle of fractionation, current clinical trial data, and procedural components of the treatment plan. DATA SOURCES: Nursing and medical literature, neurosurgical textbooks, and select internet sites. CONCLUSION: The CyberKnife (Accuray, Sunnyvale, CA) is the newest machine added to the technologic armamentarium of patient care. Its capacities are only beginning to be explored and the possibilities are limitless, giving hope to countless persons. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Technologic advances have necessitated a diversification of nursing roles. Coordination of patient care services requires nurses to advance their knowledge of frameless, image-guided SRS.