Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

Gamma Knife® surgery is a highly accurate, non-invasive means of radiation therapy used for treating various conditions affecting the brain and upper spine like tumors, vascular malformations and functional disorders. Gamma Knife does not involve incisions or knives, contrary to its name. It rather utilizes focused gamma rays which are high energy photons that are precise like an operating knife.

Advanced computer software guides the procedure by mapping out the exact location of the area that needs treatment. The Gamma Knife then releases several beams of radiation that meet at a specific point delivering large amounts of radiation to the targeted tissue while sparing surrounding healthy ones. This level of accuracy makes Gamma Knife a viable alternative for treating small or hard-to-reach lesions in the brain.

Patients are able to go home on the same day they receive Gamma Knife treatment since they require very little time for recovery with hardly any side effects. In addition, the non-invasive aspect reduces chances of complications during traditional neurosurgery. If you are thinking about undergoing this type of therapy, your healthcare team will talk with you about whether or not it is suitable for your condition as well as what to expect during the procedure itself.