I have been using CyberKnife to tackle the treatment of malignant brainstem gliomas. In the past, I treated several cases of diffuse brainstem gliomas with a combination of CyberKnife, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. One patient survived for nine years after receiving three courses of CyberKnife treatment. These cases lacked pathological confirmation, which often drew skepticism from colleagues.

In November 2024, a patient presented with gait instability and swallowing difficulties. Brain MRI revealed multiple tumors within the brainstem. A renowned hospital performed a stereotactic biopsy, confirming a diagnosis of WHO grade IV glioblastoma. When the patient and her family came to me in desperation, I explained the treatment strategies for malignant brainstem tumors. They placed great trust in me and agreed to proceed with treatment.

I first delivered a high-dose, precise CyberKnife irradiation to the tumor, followed by conformal intensity-modulated radiotherapy. After completion of this regimen, the patient regained the ability to walk, and her choking while eating and drinking improved significantly. Chemotherapy was then continued. At the end of treatment, the patient grasped my hand and tearfully said, “Many doctors advised me to give up, as no treatment could improve my symptoms. Your therapy has given me a new life.”

Four months later, follow-up MRI showed tumor shrinkage, though contrast enhancement remained prominent. I therefore scheduled a second CyberKnife treatment. The most recent MRI showed almost complete resolution of brainstem edema and significant tumor reduction. The patient has residual sensory deficits on one side, but other neurological functions remain largely normal. A follow-up MRI next month will guide whether another targeted CyberKnife session is needed to gradually eliminate the tumor and delay recurrence.

Both the patient and her family have expressed deep satisfaction with the treatment. I will continue to update her progress, aiming to provide a novel therapeutic approach for other patients with brainstem gliomas.