Gamma Knife Radiosurgery - Netcare Hospitals

What is Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

Cutting edge Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery uses up to 200 powerful, intersecting gamma ray beams to converge with high precision on a small, mapped out target in the brain where it delivers a high therapeutic radiation dose.

Along the way to converging on the target, each single low energy gamma ray beam has a minimal effect on surrounding healthy tissue in the brain. Together with Gamma Knife’s unique capability for rapid radiation dose fall off and its unprecedented degree of targeting accuracy, damage to surrounding healthy tissue is kept to a minimum.

Who can benefit from Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

The treatment can be highly effective for individuals with the conditions listed below. However, it is important to note that Gamma Knife radiosurgery is not suitable for all patients. A thorough evaluation by a specialist is necessary to determine if it is the right treatment option.

Benefits of Gamma Knife radiosurgery

Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a proven alternative to traditional brain surgery and whole brain radiation therapy, especially when treating complex brain conditions.

Unmatched targeting precision means minimal radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
A strong record of successful and safe treatments, and excellent outcomes for patients.
Patients experience minimal or no side effects.
For certain cases, it is a safer option than traditional brain surgery.
It is non-invasive as it does not require incisions or general anaesthesia.
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis, so patients will typically go home the same day and very seldom need admission to hospital.
Recovery time is much shorter compared to that of brain surgery. Patients can usually return to their everyday routine a day or so after treatment.

Dedicated, multidisciplinary clinical team

The dedicated, multidisciplinary team involved in Gamma Knife radiosurgery comprises experienced neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists and medical physicists.

Together, the team develops a unique treatment plan for each patient, tailored to their clinical condition, to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

What does the Gamma Knife procedure involve?

step 1

Applying the headframe

A targeting frame is fitted on your head using local anaesthesia. Foam is then placed in each ear to balance the frame. The frame will remain in place throughout the procedure. In certain instances, a radiation mask may be fitted instead of the headframe.

The frame:

Enables the treatment team to pinpoint the target in the brain
Attaches to the treatment couch to prevent any movement during the procedure
Ensures maximum precision of the radiation beams

step 2

Confirming the treatment target and plan

You will be required to have CT, MRI or to have another scan performed with the headframe or radiation mask in place. The location, size and shape of the treatment target in your brain in relation to information obtained from your imaging scan will then be confirmed, and the treatment plan signed off by the treating specialists.

What to expect during treatment

Typically, your treatment can take anything from 30 minutes to three hours or longer, depending on the treatment plan and the condition being treated. This depends on the size, shape, and location of the lesion and number of radiation doses. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax.

Step 1: You will be helped onto the Gamma Knife treatment couch, lying on your back.
Step 2: The headframe will be attached to the treatment couch.
Step 3: Once the Gamma Knife doors open, the couch will move the patient’s head into position and the treatment will start.

You will not see, hear, or feel the radiation. Your treatment team will be monitoring you throughout the treatment using a CCTV system, and you and the team can speak to one another at any time through a microphone located close to your head. This is an open channel and the team will be able to hear you at all times.

After treatment

Step 1: The treatment team will disconnect the headframe from the treatment table and assist you in getting up.
Step 2: The headframe will be removed and the pin holes which secured the frame to your head will be covered with antibiotic ointment and plasters.
Step 3: A pressure bandage will be applied to your head, which can be removed after two hours. You may experience some swelling or a mild headache.
Step 4: You will remain in the Gamma Knife unit for a while for observation, until your treating specialist is comfortable that you are ready to leave for home.

Specialists referring to the Gamma Knife centre

Netcare referring specialists

Dr S Ansari (Neurosurgeon)

Netcare Greenacres Hospital