Is there a knife?
Unlike traditional surgery, there is no incision, no blood and no complications with surgery. It’s called Gamma Knife because of the surgical precision and effectiveness.
Is it accurate?
The noninvasive Gamma Knife can isolate and deliver a high dose of radiation to one or more brain tumors during a single treatment session. There is no other radiation treatment system as accurate as Leksell Gamma Knife.
Because it’s noninvasive, Gamma Knife surgery can be used to treat metastases in surgically inaccessible areas of the brain, such as the brainstem.
Does it work?
Studies show that local control—meaning the specific tumor treated does not come back—exceeds an average of 85% for the management of tumors in any brain location. Over 2,000 medical papers have been published on Gamma Knife surgery, and 500,000 patients have been treated worldwide.
What are the side effects?
There are minimal side effects—some people may complain of a headache, which can be treated with over the counter pain medication. There is no loss of hair or nausea, as with some treatments. Recovery time is usually a few days with no need for convalescence or rehabilitation. Unlike open surgery, it can be used repeatedly over time if new mets occur.
Why doesn’t everyone use it?
Not everyone is a candidate for Gamma Knife surgery. Plus not all surgeons have been trained in its use, so they may be reluctant to recommend it to patients. Other types of radiation treatment often claim to be as accurate and effective, but they don’t have the data and proven results of Leksell Gamma Knife.
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