The Cyberknife: Cutting-edge technology

from www.ottawacitizen.com:

>>So far, 45 patients have been treated with the device since the hospital acquired it in September. The hospital foundation is still fundraising for the $3.5-million system.

Devices such as the Cyberknife have revolutionized treatment for brain cancer, Pantarotto notes. In the past, patients had to undergo a harrowing procedure in which they were secured to the operating table by a "halo" that was literally screwed into their skulls to ensure they didn't move.

With the Cyberknife, patients wear a hockey-style mask, which attaches to the table, and the day-long ordeal has been shortened to as little as an hour.