How you prepare

Preparation for stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiotherapy may vary depending on the condition and body area being treated but usually involves the following steps:

Food and medications

• Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.
• Talk to your doctor about whether you can take your regular medications the night before or morning of the procedure.

Clothing and personal items

Wear comfortable, loosefitting clothing.

Avoid wearing the following items during SRS of the brain or spine:

• Jewelry
• Eyeglasses
• Contact lenses
• Makeup
• Nail polish
• Dentures
• Wigs or hairpieces

Precautions regarding medications and allergies

Tell your doctor if you:

• Are taking pills or injections to control diabetes.
• Are allergic to shellfish or iodine, which are chemically related to special dyes that may be used during the procedure.
• Have implanted medical devices in your body, such as a pacemaker, artificial heart valve, aneurysm clips, neurostimulators or stents.

Bring any medications you are currently taking with you to the treatment center and ask about what you should do about taking your medications on the day of the procedure.