Battling Debilitating Tremors
MC Joseph, a 78-year-old Bengalurean, struggled with severe tremors in his head and left arm. Daily activities like writing, walking, and even sleeping became increasingly difficult. His quality of life deteriorated rapidly, leaving him searching for a solution.
A Non-Invasive Alternative to Surgery
Joseph, a prostate cancer survivor treated at HCG Cancer Hospital five years ago, also battled Parkinson’s disease. Conventional treatment options included deep brain stimulation, an invasive surgery targeting the thalamus. However, Dr. Lohith Reddy, lead radiation oncologist for functional radiosurgery at HCG Cancer Hospital, proposed a groundbreaking alternative: CyberKnife radiosurgery.
The CyberKnife Procedure: Precision Without Surgery
Unlike traditional surgery, CyberKnife uses highly focused X-rays to ablate the affected area of the thalamus. The 15-minute outpatient procedure required no anaesthesia, incisions, or hospitalisation. Joseph underwent advanced imaging techniques, including 3-Tesla MRI and DOPA PET-CT, to pinpoint the affected nuclei. Doctors then performed the procedure with remarkable accuracy.
Immediate and Transformative Results
Joseph experienced a dramatic improvement within two days. His tremors reduced by 70-75% overnight, allowing him to sleep peacefully. Soon, he regained control over his movements, enabling him to meditate, walk, and resume daily activities. By January 22, just one day after treatment, his symptoms had nearly disappeared.
A Family’s Journey to Recovery
Joseph’s son, MJ Cherian, recalled their journey. “We first noticed his symptoms in 2019 when his head bobbed while writing. Over time, his entire left side was affected. After his prostate cancer treatment in 2021, doctors suggested CyberKnife for his Parkinson’s. Initially, we were uncertain, but the procedure was quick, painless, and non-invasive. He walked out the same day without complications. Now, his tremors are almost gone, and we are hopeful for even better results in the coming weeks.”
A Promising Future for Parkinson’s Patients
As reported by TOI, CyberKnife radiosurgery is revolutionizing Parkinson’s treatment by offering a safe, effective, and non-invasive alternative to surgery. Joseph’s remarkable recovery highlights its potential to transform lives, bringing new hope to patients struggling with tremors and muscle fatigue.