|
USC University Hospital, USC/Norris Cancer Hospital, the Department of Neurological Surgery, and the Department of Radiation Oncology of the USC School of Medicine provide high-quality stereotactic radiosurgery and a long heritage of research for the management of both benign and malignant brain lesions when treated by the Gamma Knife.
The Gamma Knife can allow a neurosurgeon to perform surgery that can be bloodless. A surgical incision is not required, which permits the Gamma Knife to be used as a non-invasive treatment alternative for benign and cancerous lesions of the brain. It may also be utilized in some cases to treat arteriovenous malformations, or masses of abnormal blood vessels which grow in the brain, as well as trigeminal neuralgia, which are characterized by sudden bursts (paroxysms) of face pain.
The Procedure
The Gamma Knife works by delivering a single, high dose of ionizing radiation. In a single treatment session, 201 beams of gamma radiation can focus on the lesion with precision. It is then anticipated that the lesions slowly decrease in size and dissolve over time.
Based on several years of clinical results, the Gamma Knife is considered to be one of the treatments of choice for selected tumors and malformations. These indications include small to medium-sized, well-circumscribed lesions where the Gamma Knife is used as either the sole treatment or as an adjunct to conventional surgery and/or radiotherapy.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation when the head frame is applied. The head frame is tightly fitted to the head to prevent movement and can allow for computer-assisted measurements in order for physicians to identify the location of the target which requires treatment.
Radiation treatment may take from thirty to sixty minutes, on average. Upon completion of treatment, the head frame is removed. After a period of observation, the patient is usually released to go home. After Gamma Knife radiosurgery, patients are usually followed every 3-6 months, depending on the diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the Gamma Knife and how long has it been available?
The machine acts like a surgeon’s scalpel, or knife, in it’s ability to conform the radiation to a tumor’s shape with precision. The machine also utilizes Gamma radiation to help destroy tumors and/or treat additional brain pathologies. It was invented in 1968 in Sweden where the first clinical treatment was delivered.
In addition to the brain, can the Gamma Knife treat other areas of the body?
The Gamma Knife is not designed to treat pathology below the neck. Rather, its primary purpose is to treat certain head and neck tumors.
Will my insurance cover the Gamma Knife procedure?
Because of the relatively short hospital stays when utilizing the Gamma Knife technique as opposed to craniotomy, insurance companies including Medicare and MediCal may cover the procedure. It is advised to check with your insurance provider as it concerns your specific coverage.
Are any side effects associated with Gamma Knife treatment?
There may be a small risk of temporary or permanent or neurologic deficit. However, there is less risk associated with utilization of the Gamma Knife as opposed to that of open craniotomy, or actual brain surgery, for similar pathologies.
For a physician referral, please call 1-888-700-5700.
|