Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a form of stereotactic radiosurgery, an advanced form of radiation therapy. Although it sounds like surgery, Gamma Knife radiosurgery is minimally invasive, does not involve any incisions and does not require a hospital stay. It’s preferred by healthcare professionals for extreme accuracy, efficiency and outstanding therapeutic response.
Using advanced diagnostic imaging and three-dimensional planning software, the Gamma Knife Perfexion delivers 192 precisely focused beams of gamma radiation to small targets inside the brain. Delivery of radiation is concentrated into a single, precisely aimed point where all 192 beams converge to treat the diseased tissue while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
Its benefits include:
- Targeted treatment of previously inaccessible areas
- High cure rate
- Delivery of maximum dose to target area
- Low risk of damage to nearby healthy tissue
- Low morbidity
- Painless treatment
- Return home the same day
- High patient satisfaction and quality of life
What to Expect During Treatment
Gamma knife treatment is painless and noiseless. The entire procedure takes one to four hours, with the actual treatment being performed in a single session that lasts 20 to 60 minutes. Patients typically go home on the same day. Treatment requires the combined skills of the Gamma Knife Center team, including a neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, neuroradiologist, medical physicist, imaging technologist, specially trained nurse and radiation therapist.
The effects of the treatment occur over an extended period of time, ranging from a few weeks or months to several years. The results are monitored by your physician.
Each step in the treatment process is focused on your comfort and well-being, while achieving superior clinical outcomes and efficiency.
Frame Attachment: A stereotactic lightweight frame is secured to the head. You are given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the frame’s pins will be secured.
Imaging: Scans are taken immediately before the treatment to determine the precise shape, size and location of the target. The stereotactic frame is identifiable on MRIs and other imaging technologies, and is used as a reference to pinpoint the area to be treated.
Treatment Plan: Images are then used to create a tailored treatment plan to enable an optimal radiation dose. The headframe is attached to the treatment couch, keeping the patient’s head precisely positioned during treatment.
Treatment: Targets are automatically irradiated according to the treatment plan. You are closely monitored throughout the treatment and our clinical team makes sure you are always comfortable.
Patients typically return home after treatment and can resume normal activities within 48 hours.