Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR)
What is Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR)?
Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) also known as Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) is a cutting-edge form of advanced radiotherapy that delivers highly focused, high-dose radiation directly to tumours with sub-millimetre precision. This level of accuracy helps to protect surrounding healthy tissue resulting in fewer side effects and typically requires only a few treatment sessions.
At East Midlands Urology, Dr Prantik Das, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, has extensive experience, bringing over five years of using SABR to treat a wide range of tumour sites with excellent outcomes.
Patients can receive SABR at Derby Private Health, Nuffield Health Derby and all GenesisCare Centres including Nottingham, Birmingham, Oxford and Cromwell Hospital.
“The actual technology used for my treatment was outstanding. My biggest worry was not being able to play hockey again for England over 70’s, but in fact I was still able to play whilst undergoing treatment”
Peter, prostate patient
Is SABR suitable for me?
SABR is a highly advanced radiotherapy technique used to treat various cancers, including those of the prostate, kidney, and bladder. It’s also effective in managing progressive disease where cancer has spread to areas such as the spine, bone, or lymph nodes.
For patients who have previously undergone radiotherapy, SABR offers a safe and effective option for treating recurrence. Its high precision allows targeted treatment of tumours while minimising exposure to surrounding tissue that may have already received radiation—making it a valuable alternative for those who may not be suitable for surgery.
Receive high-precision SABR using the MRIdian MR-linac
For patients with tumours in moving organs, such as the prostate or kidney, or for difficult to treat tumours SABR delivered with the MRIdian MR-linac offers unmatched precision and safety. This advanced system combines a high-definition MRI scanner with a linear accelerator, allowing clinicians to see the tumour in real time during treatment.
Because the MRIdian tracks the tumour’s exact position and shape throughout each session, it can adjust the radiation beams to account for natural movement, like breathing or changes in anatomy. This ensures radiation is delivered precisely to the tumour, while sparing healthy tissue.
Treatment completed in as few as 5 sessions.
Unlike traditional radiotherapy, which may require up to 37 sessions, treatment with the MRIdian typically involves as few as 5 sessions, with significantly fewer side effects. Most patients can return to their normal routine much sooner.
Dr Prantik Das is among the first UK oncologists to offer SABR on the MRIdian MR-linac. East Midlands Urology patients have access to the MRIdian at GenesisCare Oxford or Cromwell Hospital London, with transport available if needed.
What to expect during SABR treatment?
Your treatment journey begins with a consultation with Dr Prantik Das, who will assess whether SABR is the right option for your type of cancer. If suitable, you’ll then attend your chosen treatment centre for a planning scan and possibly additional outpatient tests.
SABR on standard linac
A trusted, effective treatment option delivered at multiple locations across the UK.
Planning your treatment
Before your planning appointment, your care team will be in touch with instructions and to answer any questions. The planning session includes a CT scan, and in some cases, an MRI, depending on where your tumour is located.
Using these images, Dr Das and the care team will create a personalised SABR treatment plan, carefully tailored to target your cancer with precision.
During your treatment
SABR is typically delivered in 3 to 5 sessions, spaced every other day. Each appointment lasts between 10 and 60 minutes, and your care team will ensure you’re positioned correctly and comfortable throughout. The machine moves around you during treatment, but the process is painless—and you can go home straight after.
After treatment
Once treatment is complete, you’ll be referred back to Dr Das for follow-up. The care team will check in with you, and you’ll have a review appointment to discuss any side effects and how you have responded to treatment.
SABR on MRIdian MR-linac
A highly precise, image-guided approach ideal for tumours in moving or hard-to-reach areas.
Planning your treatment
Your planning appointment will include two scans: an MRI on the MRIdian and a separate CT scan. Once these are completed, you’ll be able to go home. Using the scan images, Dr Das and your care team will carefully design a personalised radiotherapy plan tailored to your needs.
During your treatment
Before each treatment session, you’ll have a new MRI scan. This is used to compare with your planning images and track any changes in tumour position or internal anatomy. You may notice the couch move slightly; this is just the team adjusting your position for optimal precision.
Each treatment session lasts around 45–60 minutes. You’ll be able to hear and speak with the care team via intercom throughout.
After your session, you’re free to go home.
After treatment
When your treatment is complete, you’ll have a follow-up with Dr Das to review how you’re feeling and assess your response to treatment. Your care team will also check in to provide any further support you may need.
We accept all major private medical insurers, with self-pay options available.
Get in touch today to discuss your next steps.