The Gamma Knife procedure How does it work?
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	Related conditions   - Brain cancer (Brain tumor)   - Acoustic neuroma   - Meningioma   - Trigeminal neuralgia

The Gamma Knife experience – step by step

Before treatment

One of our nurses will call to discuss some of the things that need to be done before the day of treatment, including any special dietary or medication restrictions that may need to be adhered to. Patients may also be asked to pack a light suitcase. This is just a precaution as the Gamma Knife Team may wish to observe an individual overnight.

The day of treatment

Most patients are asked to come to St. Luke's early in the morning. Family members can come as well. Patients will be asked to change into a hospital gown and an IV will be administered so fluids and/or medication can be received. Then, a special guiding device (called a stereotactic head frame) will be attached to the head with four pins. This will take about 20 minutes and we'll administer a small amount of local anesthetic before attaching the device to help patients be more comfortable. This frame will allow us to take measurements of an individual's head that will help plan the dose for treatment.

What exactly is the Gamma Knife?

The Gamma Knife is not actually a knife. It's a precise, state-of-the-art instrument that uses radiation, more specifically, gamma rays, to target and destroy brain tumors and blood vessel abnormalities deep within the brain. The radiation is delivered by as many as 201 beams that are programmed to pinpoint a tumor or an abnormal blood vessel.

The dose of radiation is calculated to injure or kill the diseased cells while minimizing injury to surrounding healthy tissue. This clinically proven procedure was first performed in 1968 and numerous research studies support the accuracy, efficiency and safety of Gamma Knife technology. In fact, more than 100,000 patients have received Gamma Knife treatment to date.

What are the advantages of the Gamma Knife?

Gamma Knife treatment can offer a number of benefits for patients including:

Increased safety

No incision is made. As a result, the risk of infection or post-operative hemorrhage is minimal.

Effective

The Gamma Knife is accurate and successful – which means something very powerful is happening for patients with previously inoperable brain tumors. They're gaining hope.

Painless

The operation is much easier on the body. The procedure is very simple and pain-free.

Short recovery time

The procedure generally requires a maximum of one overnight stay at the hospital. However, some patients may receive treatment and go home the same day.

Cost-effective

Most people can return to normal activities, including work, within 24 hours. And usually, no physical therapy or other rehabilitation is necessary. So, Gamma Knife treatment is often more cost-effective than traditional surgery.

Additionally, most insurers cover the procedure. If you are a candidate for treatment, please be sure to check with your provider for details on your plan's coverage. Our insurance coordinator will be happy to assist you with any paperwork.

What conditions can be treated?

Typically, patients with these conditions are potential candidates for Gamma Knife treatment:

Brain Tumors

Both malignant and benign, including:

• Acoustic neuromas
• Pituitary adenomas
• Meningiomas
• Craniopharyngiomas
• Pinealomas
• Glial and metastatic lesions

Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)

Functional Neurological Disorders (including trigeminal neuralgia and certain movement disorders)

Get details on the actual procedure.

Gamma Knife technology offers a treatment option for many patients who were previously considered inoperable due to the location of the tumor, age or medical condition. It is not meant to replace traditional surgery. In fact, Gamma Knife treatment may be used in conjunction with surgery, chemotherapy or other radiation treatment.