The non-invasive technique of Gamma Knife® radiosurgery offers important benefits for patients. Treatment with the Leksell Gamma Knife® 4C means fewer complications, faster recovery times, and increased patient comfort.

Here is what patients can expect:

Before the Procedure

Patient completes necessary paperwork and consent forms.

A nursing assessment is performed to assess vital signs and patient status. At that time, the patient's head will be cleansed with rubbing alcohol or betadine. NOTE: patient's hair will not be shaved or cut.

Medications are administered

The neurosurgeon will position the stereotactic frame (helmet) on the patient's head. Frame placement generally takes 15-20 minutes.

Patient is taken for neuro-imaging. In most cases this will be an MRI. For patients who cannot have an MRI, a CT scan may be done. During this time the frame will remain in place.

Once neuro-imaging is complete, our team of neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists use this information to plan your treatment. Family members can remain with patients during this time.

During the Procedure

After the Gamma Knife treatment plan is completed, patient is taken to the treatment room and placed on the treatment couch.

A headframe is then attached to the helmet to prevent your head from moving during treatment; however, you will be able to move your arms and legs freely.

The physicians and nurses will leave the treatment room during treatment, observing the patient through a television monitor.

The couch will move automatically into the Gamma Knife and the helmet will gently click into place. You cannot hear or feel the radiation during the treatment.

There may be multiple position changes required. During position changes the couch will move out a short distance to enable a change in the position of the patient's head, and the couch will then move back into the machine automatically.

There may be several treatment periods in the treatment plan and each treatment varies in length. Generally, total treatment time varies between several minutes and over an hour.

After the Procedure

The headframe is removed and the intravenous catheter is taken out. Patient will be monitored for a while and then discharged home.

Patient will receive discharge instructions with specific information regarding your care.