About SABR
ABOUT SABR
SABR (Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiation, also known as Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy – SBRT) is an advanced 5-day radiation treatment for Prostate Cancer. For many patients, it is an excellent alternative to conventional radiation therapy, which can take up to 45 sessions.
SABR TREATMENT PROCESS
The SABR treatment process is similar to, but more accelerated than traditional radiation therapy. We’ll take you through the steps from consultation to follow-up so you can see what the journey is like.
CONSULTATION
Dr. Brabham will review and discuss your case with you and determine whether SABR is an appropriate treatment option for your prostate cancer.
STAGING SCANS
If appropriate and not already performed, Dr. Brabham will order imaging studies to determine the clinical stage of your prostate cancer.
PLACEMENT OF FIDUCIAL MARKERS
Three, small plastic markers called fiducials will be placed in the patient’s prostate in a procedure, which is similar to a prostate biopsy, but quicker and typically much less uncomfortable. These markers will be imaged during each treatment to ensure precise positioning of the prostate to allow for on-target dose delivery.
TREATMENT PLANNING CT SCAN
During this session, the patient’s custom body mold will be created and a CT scan of the patient in this device will be performed immediately thereafter. Patients prepare for the scan with a self-administered enema to achieve an empty rectum and by drinking a moderate amount of water prior to the procedure to achieve a full bladder.
PROSTATE MRI
MRI of the prostate will be performed shortly after the CT simulation to generate the highest resolution images possible of the prostate and the surrounding anatomy. The MRI images will then be combined with the images from CT simulation, allowing Dr. Brabham to produce a highly accurate three-dimensional model of the patient’s anatomy to be used in treatment planning.
TREATMENT DELIVERY
Treatment delivery typically occurs within one to two weeks of the treatment planning scans. Each treatment takes approximately 10 minutes of set-up time and approximately 2 minutes of radiation delivery time. Treatment is non-invasive and entirely painless. Patients perform the same bladder and rectal preparation as for the treatment planning scan.
FOLLOW-UP AFTER TREATMENT
After treatment you will follow up periodically in this clinic for PSA monitoring and overall clinical assessment.