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Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)
We are the only center in the region to use a special mapping system to maximize stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) treatment benefits in less time. Having fewer treatment sessions can help you live more of your life on your own terms.
What is stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT)?
Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is an advanced type of external radiation therapy.
It uses a machine called a linear accelerator and other tools to deliver high doses of radiation precisely where needed to destroy cancer cells.
SBRT: What to expect
Many patients experience few side effects from SBRT therapy. Some people, especially lung cancer patients, report having no side effects at all.
Increased precision means SBRT treatments that used to take seven weeks (35 treatments) can now be completed in four or fewer treatments.
You should know that no radiation remains in your body after treatment. After treatment ends, you can resume normal activities with no fear of exposing people around you to radiation.
Read more radiation therapy FAQs.
How to talk to your doctor about SBRT
If your doctor recommends SBRT as part of your treatment plan, you may have many questions. Our team has answers and empathy.
A member of our team will sit down with you before your first treatment to help you prepare. We will explain what you can expect and address all your questions so you can feel confident in the path forward.
Our team approach to cancer treatment means many leading medical minds play a part in your care. Regular discussions among cancer doctors with different specialties ensure we recommend therapies that are most appropriate for your circumstances.
Why choose us for SBRT?
Our specialists use SBRT (sometimes called stereotactic ablative radiation therapy, or SABR) to treat many different cancers in adults. You can access a comprehensive range of radiation therapy services under one roof at Mays Cancer Center.
Highlights of our program include:
- Leading cancer expertise: As the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center in Central and South Texas, you can trust us to follow leading science and cancer research. By participating in national and local clinical trials, we offer eligible patients promising therapies before they are widely available. Learn more about our NCI designation.
- Focused training: Our radiation oncologists specialize in treating certain cancer types. This additional training means we regularly treat advanced or complex cases that some doctors rarely see.
- Commitment to excellence: We continually pursue new advances and refined techniques so we can deliver precise, personalized care. For example, we use surface imaging and mapping tools to effectively treat cancer in fewer treatment sessions, often with fewer side effects.
Cancers we treat with SBRT
Your doctor may recommend SBRT in combination with other radiation therapies or cancer treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
Our doctors have expertise in using SBRT to treat: