Reno-based cancer treatment center shares a patient story.

1. Aug. XX, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Sarah Tiambeng, Zehnder Communications, (504) 962-3731, saraht@z-comm.com
Reno CyberKnife Prostate Cancer Treatment Endorsed by
American Society for Radiation Oncology as Primary Option
Reno-based cancer treatment center shares patient story
RENO, Nev. – The American Society for Radiation Oncology recently endorsed stereotactic body
radiation therapy as a first line treatment option for prostate cancer, highlighting SBRT as a primary
form of treatment for prostate cancer.
Reno CyberKnife is the only center in northern Nevada offering this type of treatment using
CyberKnife® technology. The center has treated more than 100 patients for the disease since
opening, drawing patients from California and Idaho to receive treatment.
Reno CyberKnife patient Jon Nowlin traveled from Carson City for the procedure. After his initial
prostate cancer diagnosis in 2006, Nowlin knew he would pursue robotic surgery should he ever
require treatment. His local prostate cancer support group first introduced him to SBRT when Reno
CyberKnife medical director Dr. Jonathan Tay spoke about the procedure at a meeting.
Like many patients in the early stages of a prostate cancer diagnosis, Nowlin practiced active
surveillance of his tumor rather than immediately seeking treatment. A biopsy in April 2012 showed
his tumor growth had progressed to the intermediate stage. Nowlin turned to Reno CyberKnife for
treatment.
“I spoke with Dr. Tay and he was very educated on the technology and was candid about what the
treatment would be like,” Nowlin said. “After talking with him, I felt that I understood the procedure
and didn’t have questions going into treatment.”
During CyberKnife treatment, precisely focused high doses of radiation conformed to the shape of the
tumor are delivered. The treatment is painless and requires no incisions or sedation. As an added
benefit, the CyberKnife is able to track the tumor in real time and adjust for patient movement during
treatment.
“About 60 percent of all prostate cancer cases are diagnosed in men 65 years of age or older. Men of
this age may require or request a treatment option that reduces long term side effects commonly
associated with prostate cancer treatment,” Dr. Tay said. “For those who are candidates, CyberKnife
treatment is a nonsurgical alternative that many are looking for.”
Treatment is completed in five or fewer sessions, compared to an average of 40 sessions typically
required with conventional radiation therapy. Patients usually return to their normal routines
immediately following treatment and experience few to no side effects.

2. “I would absolutely recommend CyberKnife treatment to other men with prostate cancer,” Nowlin said.
“I felt no discomfort during treatment, and the Reno CyberKnife staff made sure I was doing well in
follow up consultations and had everything I needed.”
In addition to prostate cancer, Reno CyberKnife treats malignant and benign tumors in the brain,
lungs, liver, pancreas, kidney and orbit of the eye. The center also has treated several patients with
trigeminal neuralgia, a debilitating nerve disorder.
Reno CyberKnife is a service of Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and is located at 645 North
Arlington Ave. in Reno, Nev. For more information, call (775) 348-9900.
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