CyberKnife for Kidney Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the use of CyberKnife, a precise radiation treatment, for kidney cancer. The goal is to determine if this technology can effectively target and treat Stage I renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer that hasn't spread. The trial delivers radiation over a few days to limit exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Individuals diagnosed with Stage I renal cell carcinoma and without other cancers in the past two years might be suitable candidates for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides an opportunity to explore innovative treatment options for kidney cancer.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. Please consult with the trial coordinators or your doctor for guidance.
What prior data suggests that CyberKnife Radiosurgery is safe for treating kidney cancer?
Research has shown that CyberKnife, a precise radiation therapy, is generally well-tolerated by patients with kidney cancer. Studies have found that it can safely target tumors with high doses of radiation while protecting nearby healthy organs. For example, doses up to 60 Gy over three sessions were safely used in patients with localized kidney cancer. Patients in those studies maintained good kidney function after treatment, with few reports of serious side effects. This suggests that CyberKnife is a promising and safe option for treating kidney cancer.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
The CyberKnife treatment is unique because it uses advanced robotic radiosurgery to deliver precise doses of radiation directly to kidney tumors. Unlike traditional surgery or standard radiation therapy, which may involve longer recovery times or impact surrounding healthy tissues, CyberKnife offers a non-invasive option that targets only the tumor. This method is particularly exciting because it can be completed in just 3–4 days, potentially leading to quicker recovery and fewer side effects for patients. Researchers are optimistic about its ability to provide effective treatment while minimizing harm to the rest of the kidney and nearby organs.
What evidence suggests that CyberKnife is effective for kidney cancer?
Research has shown that CyberKnife radiosurgery, the treatment under study in this trial, effectively treats kidney cancer that hasn't spread. A review of several studies found that Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT), similar to CyberKnife, excels at stopping tumor growth or spread. Another large study found that treatments like CyberKnife successfully controlled the cancer and maintained kidney function for five years. These studies suggest that CyberKnife could be a strong option for people with localized kidney cancer, offering precise treatment while protecting nearby healthy tissue.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Irving D Kaplan, MD
Principal Investigator
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with Stage I renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) no larger than 8 cm, who can have a gold marker placed near the tumor and are expected to live at least another year. They must not have had other cancers in the last 2 years (except non-invasive skin cancers), be able to undergo CT/MRI scans, and use contraception.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Cyberknife Radiosurgery treatments over 3-14 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- CyberKnife
CyberKnife is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Primary Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Primary Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Primary Renal Cell Carcinoma
- Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Collaborator