When Alan visited his GP for a routine appointment, a simple question sparked a life-changing discovery: “When was your last PSA test?” Realising it had been many years, Alan’s GP recommended he have one. The results revealed a significantly elevated PSA level, prompting further investigation.

After receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis, Alan was referred to a urologist who, in due course, connected him with Dr Ramesh Pandey, Radiation Oncologist at Auckland Radiology Oncology (ARO).

After assessment, Dr Pandey confirmed that Alan was a candidate for CyberKnife®, an advanced, highly targeted form of robotic radiotherapy.

About CyberKnife®

CyberKnife is world-leading robotic radiotherapy technology that delivers highly targeted radiation with sub-millimetre accuracy. For many men with prostate cancer, it offers a non-invasive treatment option with a shorter treatment course and fewer side effects than traditional approaches, and can be used as an alternative to surgery.

Before deciding on treatment, Alan did his homework. “I researched CyberKnife®, and I also spoke to a family member who works in radiation oncology in Hong Kong,” he says. “They use CyberKnife® at their hospital too and he confirmed it is a world-leading technology, so that gave me additional confidence.”

A supportive and calming experience

From the moment he arrived at ARO, Alan says the staff made all the difference.

“The team were excellent. Their care, kindness and sensitivity made the whole experience really good,” he says.

Alan also recalls the treatment environment as providing an additional level of comfort.

“The treatment space had a really good atmosphere. I lay down and listened to music during my treatment - it was very calming.”

While undergoing his CyberKnife® sessions, Alan often thought about a friend receiving traditional radiation therapy overseas at the same time.

“He had to have around 30 treatment sessions for his prostate cancer. It was significantly more difficult,” Alan says. “CyberKnife® was just a different experience.”

A year on, Alan is active and well

Today, Alan is 79 and enjoying good health. He keeps active and enjoys regular table tennis - grateful for both his health and the treatment pathway he chose.

CyberKnife® - available to patients around New Zealand through ARO

ARO is New Zealand’s only CyberKnife® provider, offering treatment at its Epsom clinic, which is conveniently located less than five kilometres from Auckland’s CBD.

Prostate cancer patients receiving CyberKnife® treatment typically only need five 30-minute treatments, which can be completed over 10 days. This, along with the availability of virtual consultations with ARO’s radiation oncologists, makes CyberKnife® an accessible option for patients from across New Zealand.

You can learn more about CyberKnife® here.