Gamma Knife Radiosurgery is a minimally invasive medical procedure that utilizes highly focused radiation beams to treat various conditions within the brain, head, and neck regions. Despite its name, it does not involve the use of an actual knife or incision. Instead, Gamma Knife Radiosurgery relies on advanced technology that combines 3D imaging with precise and high-dose radiation delivery.
This non-invasive treatment is primarily employed to target small, well-defined lesions in the brain or other sensitive areas. It is especially effective for treating brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), trigeminal neuralgia, and certain functional disorders. Gamma Knife Radiosurgery allows for the precise delivery of radiation to the target area without harming the surrounding healthy tissue, making it a preferred option for patients who are not eligible for conventional surgery.
During the procedure, the patient is typically placed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. A specialized frame is secured to the patient's head, which provides stability and ensures the accuracy of the radiation beams. High-energy gamma rays are then directed towards the targeted area from multiple angles, converging at the site of the lesion. The radiation damages the DNA within the treated cells, either causing their destruction or preventing further growth.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery is considered to be highly effective, safe, and time-efficient. The entire treatment is usually completed within a few hours, and patients can generally resume their daily activities shortly afterward. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as fatigue, headache, or nausea, which tend to subside within a few days.
