Gamma Knife Therapy
What is Gamma Knife Therapy?
Gamma Knife Therapy is radiation treatment given through multiple radiation beams that are precisely directed to the tumour area. It is not painful—a painless, computer-guided form of radiation treatment performed using the Gamma Knife – a non-invasive neurosurgical device. This procedure delivers multiple, highly precise beams of radiation to targeted areas within the brain. The concentrated radiation can reduce the size of small brain tumours, or block abnormal blood vessels and nerve pathways responsible for pain or seizures.
Gamma Knife Therapy is also used in the management of certain neurological conditions. Despite its name, the procedure does not involve an actual knife or conventional surgery. The term “Gamma Knife” refers to the knife-like precision with which the radiation is delivered to the designated target. It is also known as Gamma Knife Radiosurgery or Stereotactic Radiosurgery.
For some patients, Gamma Knife Therapy offers an effective alternative to open neurosurgery. It may be particularly suitable for individuals who are unable to undergo conventional surgery due to underlying medical conditions, advanced age, or personal preference. The treatment is minimally invasive, typically requires a shorter hospital stay, and involves a reduced recovery period compared to traditional neurosurgery.
It is important to discuss all available treatment options with your healthcare provider. A second opinion is recommended to ensure you are fully informed of all possible approaches before proceeding with Gamma Knife Therapy.
Why is gamma knife surgery performed?
Dr Ndamase may recommend gamma knife surgery to treat some diseases/tumors and conditions of the brain. For example, Gamma knife surgery can treat:
a. Brain tumors (these can be malignant or benign tumors)
b. Eye cancers (e.g. Ocular Melanoma)
c. Arteriovenous malformation (AVM)
d. Trigeminal neuralgia
e. Acoustic neuroma, a non-cancerous tumour that affects the nerve which connects the inner ear to the brain
f. Trigeminal neuralgia, a disorder in the nerve – causing debilitating face sensation/ pain.
Procedure information
Planning CT scans/MRI/ Cerebral Angiogram are performed as diagnostic tools to confirm size of the tumor. This type of treatment is in a hospital set-up, where local anesthesia is used on the scalp before treatment is introduced.
Dr Ndamase will discuss the full procedure and take you through every step of the management.
In most cases, patients are discharged on the same day. However, in certain situations, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended for further observation.
Gamma knife surgery effects
a. Bleeding or other discharge at the pin sites
b. Brain swelling
c. Adverse reaction or problems related to sedation, such as an allergic reaction and problems with breathing.
d. Nausea and vomiting
e. Severe headache
f. Hair loss – localized (could be a temporary loss) temporary
Self-care for Gamma knife therapy
a. There is a followed list of recommendations that can be used to attend for selfcare. This will include diet and management of self-care before and after the treatment.
b. One might experience seizures, bleeding on site or headaches, doctor is to be informed as soon as possible – so that medication can be advised by doctor.
c. Allergic reactions can be noted and are to be urgently reported to the treating team.
Dr Ndamase is always available whenever there is a need to discuss this treatment more, explanation on how exactly does it work – which in return gives clarity as you go through the cancer care journey.
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