Purpose of Technology

Robotically assisted stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) uses bony landmarks, implanted metallic markers, or a custom-designed mask or vest containing optical markers to provide reference points for precise three-dimensional (3D) localization. With the aid of a computerized robotic system for one or more steps in the procedure, this approach enables precise targeting of radiation therapy, which minimizes the radiation dose to critical, healthy tissues near the target. Robotically assisted SRS has been introduced for a variety of thoracic and abdominal indications, including treatment of malignant tumors.

Questions addressed in this report include:

• Does robotically assisted SRS provide effective tumor control and how does it compare with other techniques, including frame-based methods of radiation therapy, in terms of patient outcomes and treatment-associated morbidity?
• What complications are associated with robotically assisted SRS?
• Have definitive patient selection criteria for robotically assisted SRS been established?

These questions provide a framework for review and synthesis of the best available evidence, which is presented in this report, along with the Hayes Ratings for the technology. This report also provides background information about the condition being treated, a description of the technology, and the context for development of the technology. Other key elements addressed in the report include the regulatory status; applicable Medicare and commercial payer coverage policies; relevant ICD-9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes; cost and cost effectiveness; credentialing; hospital length of stay; need for large case management; and ongoing and future clinical trials of the technology.

Posted in Directory Reports
This entry was posted on Friday, August 26th, 2011 at 8:00 am.