How long does a Gamma Knife procedure take?

Most treatments take 30 minutes to three hours (for the treatment itself), depending on the size, shape, and location of the lesion and number of radiation doses. After your treatment, the table moves out of the machine and the staff will enter the room. Your head frame/mask and IV are removed.

How is Gamma Knife surgery produced?

The Gamma Knife® utilizes a technique called stereotactic radiosurgery, which uses multiple beams of radiation converging in three dimensions to focus precisely on a small volume, such as a tumor, permitting intense doses of radiation to be delivered to that volume safely.

Are you awake during Gamma Knife surgery?

You will be awake during the radiosurgery, but you will be comfortably sedated. An IV is placed in your arm prior to the treatment. Medication is then administered through this IV to help you relax. You will also receive a special medicated lollypop.

What kind of surgery is Gamma Knife for?

What is Gamma Knife® surgery? Gamma Knife® surgery is a treatment method that uses radiation and computer-guided planning to treat brain tumors, vascular malformations and other abnormalities in the brain. Despite its name, this procedure does not involve any incisions, not even a skin incision.

How to prepare for Gamma Knife brain surgery?

In addition, Gamma Knife is one of the top methods for remediating inoperable brain tumors and arteriovenous malformations. Your preparation will start before you enter the hospital. On the day preceding the surgery, wash your hair, but don’t use any hair toiletries other than shampoo. Refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight.

How is nausea treated after Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

Some patients have a headache or nausea, which is easily treated by oral medication. You will be released that day from the hospital, or possibly kept one night for observation. The goal of Gamma Knife radiosurgery is to disrupt the cells’ ability to replicate by radiating the cells in the tumor, nerve, or brain region.

When to leave the hospital after Gamma Knife surgery?

For example, nausea, vomiting, and headaches rarely occur. No infections, hemorrhages, or other standard neurological complications have been reported as a result of Gamma Knife procedures. Patients usually leave the hospital within 24 hours after stereotactic radiosurgery.