Omnibeam – Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Omnibeam?

Omnibeam is a dramatic, new, clinically advanced stereotactic radiation therapy treatment machine for cancer. The combination of improved imaging – coupled with robotic technology – is vastly superior to other radiation machines for cancer therapy. It uses advanced imaging technology to treat small to large, irregularly shaped tumors and does not require placement of metal markers, as with other therapies. Its robotic component tracks a patient’s real-time movements and adjusts the treatment accordingly. With the help of real-time imaging, treatment can be adjusted very quickly to accommodate external and internal motion. Omnibeam is powered by Elekta Axesse, an FDA-approved technology.

Q. What is required for treatment?

Aided by sophisticated diagnostic testing, doctors at Beaumont are able to determine if stereotactic radiation therapy can serve as a substitute (or addition) to conventional surgery. When stereotactic radiation therapy is required, your Beaumont radiation oncologist arranges a consultation to discuss your options and select the best course of treatment. If your Beaumont radiation oncologist selects Omnibeam, you can be confident that you are receiving the best treatment option and that Omnibeam's advanced technology facilitates a comfortable and gentle treatment experience.

Q. Who might benefit from this treatment?

Patients with these types of cancers are most likely to benefit from treatment with Omnibeam
• Lung
• Spine and/or brain
• Breast
• Gynecological area
• Prostate
• Head and neck
• Intestinal and stomach
• Liver
• Pancreas
• Colorectal
• Pediatric

Q. How many procedures have been performed using Omnibeam?

Omnibeam entered full clinical operation at Beaumont in September 2007, and 336 extracranial radiosurgery treatments were delivered between Jan. 1, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2008. Before this date, Beaumont physicians treated many patients every year with stereotactic radiosurgery and radiation therapy. Moreover, Omnibeam technology was built on the foundation of Elekta Synergy® and Elekta Synergy® technology, which have been in routine clinical use for many years at hospitals worldwide.

Q. What if I’m unsure about my options?

Talk to your physician. If you do not have a Beaumont doctor, call our Physician Referral Service at 800-633-7377 or go to Find a Doctor <link to section on site> on this Web site. We’ll be happy to find a doctor who is close to your home, participates with your insurance plan and meets your specific needs.

Q. How is the treatment performed?

The patient is positioned on the treatment couch and a computed tomography scan (CT scan) is performed to precisely localize the treatment area. Then, using robotic real-time patient position tracking, small adjustments are made to the treatment couch, ensuring accurate delivery of stereotactic radiation therapy. Treatment is completely painless and extremely accurate.

Q. How long does the treatment take?

Anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes. Sometimes, a more complicated condition can require more treatment time.

Q. What are the benefits of Omnibeam for me as a patient, compared to other, similar types of treatments? 

Beaumont selected Omnibeam because its image-guided, robotic technology delivers the most accurate treatments available. 

Q. What are the side effects of this treatment?

• Skin reddening (looks like a sunburn)
• Itchy skin
• Fatigue (feeling tired frequently)
Most side effects are site-specific and vary depending on the patient’s well-being before treatment. Your Radiation Oncologist will discuss with you the specific side effects of your treatment.

Q. Does my insurance cover this procedure?

Most insurance companies cover radiation therapy, but it is something that you would need to discuss with your insurance company. Please contact them for all insurance coverage questions.

Q. How do I schedule a consultation?

To schedule a consultation with a radiation oncologist, call:
• Troy: 800-328-8542
• Royal Oak: 248-551-5490