MRI EVALUATION OF POST PROCEDURAL CYBERKNIFE COMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Background: Cyber Knife is an advanced, non-invasive stereotactic radiosurgery system used for the treatment of brain tumors. While it offers high precision and minimal invasiveness, it may still lead to certain post-treatment complications. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) serves as a critical tool for identifying these complications and differentiating them from tumor recurrence. This study aimed to evaluate the MRI-detectable post-procedural complications in patients with brain tumors treated with Cyber Knife. Objective: To evaluate complication of cyber knife brain tumor treatment on MRI. Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted involving patients who underwent Cyber Knife treatment for brain tumors. Post-treatment MRI scans were assessed to detect complications such as cerebral edema, radiation necrosis, tumor recurrence, infections, vascular malformations, and hemorrhage. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0, and chi-square tests were applied to examine associations between variables including age, gender, and type of complication. Results: MRI findings revealed that 30% of patients developed cerebral edema, 22% exhibited signs of tumor recurrence, and 18% showed features suggestive of radiation necrosis. Less frequent findings included infections (4%), vascular malformations (6%), and hemorrhage (2%). A statistically significant association was found between increasing age and tumor recurrence (p = 0.003), while no significant correlation was observed with gender. MRI proved effective in distinguishing between radiation-induced changes and true tumor progression. Conclusion: MRI plays a vital role in the post-Cyber Knife evaluation of brain tumor patients by enabling early detection of complications and guiding clinical management. Recognizing post-treatment changes is essential for distinguishing them from disease recurrence, ultimately contributing to better patient care and outcomes.