Gamma Knife for Brain Metastases

Gamma knife

Gamma Knife is a noninvasive radiosurgery for treating brain tumours and other neurological disorders. Unlike traditional brain surgery, which involves physically cutting into the skull and brain tissue, Gamma Knife uses highly focused gamma radiation beams to target the affected area with extreme precision. The procedure involves using a special machine that emits gamma radiation from multiple angles.

The beams are focused on the affected area, converging and delivering a high radiation dose to the target tissue. The radiation beams are so precise that they spare the surrounding healthy tissue, minimizing the risk of complications and side effects. The Gamma Knife is particularly useful for treating brain tumours that are difficult to reach with traditional surgery. It can also treat other neurological disorders like arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), trigeminal neuralgia, and acoustic neuromas.

The Gamma Knife procedure is outpatient and usually takes 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the case’s complexity. Before the procedure, the patient will be fitted with a special frame attached to the head to ensure accurate targeting of the radiation beams. The frame is usually secured to the skull using four pins, which can cause discomfort but is usually well-tolerated. During the procedure, the patient lies on a couch that slides into the Gamma Knife machine.

The radiation beams are precisely targeted using advanced imaging technology, such as MRI or CT scans, to ensure that the affected tissue receives the correct amount of radiation. Patients are usually awake during the procedure, although they may be given a mild sedative to help them relax. After the procedure, the patient can usually return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days. However, it may take several weeks or months for the full effects of the treatment to be seen. The Gamma Knife is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients with brain tumours and other neurological disorders.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with Gamma Knife treatment. These may include temporary swelling of the brain tissue, headaches, and nausea. In rare cases, patients may experience more serious complications, such as seizures or changes in vision or hearing.