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Gamma Knife surgery In Nagpur

Dr. Ritesh Nawkhare's Neurosys Multispeciality Centre > Gamma Knife surgery In Nagpur
Gamma Knife surgery brain in machine knife removed tumors

Gamma Knife surgery

Gamma Knife Surgery is a highly advanced, non-invasive radiation therapy used to treat various brain disorders, including tumors, vascular malformations, and functional conditions like trigeminal neuralgia. Despite its name, Gamma Knife is not a surgical procedure but a form of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) that delivers precise radiation to targeted areas in the brain, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

This innovative treatment has transformed the field of neurosurgery by providing a safer and more effective alternative to traditional brain surgery. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Gamma Knife surgery, its benefits, applications, procedure details, recovery expectations, and potential risks.

Why is gamma knife surgery ?

Gamma Knife surgery is a form of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) that uses focused beams of gamma radiation to treat abnormalities in the brain. Unlike traditional surgery, it does not require incisions, making it a preferred option for patients who cannot undergo open brain surgery.
 

Key Features of Gamma Knife Surgery

  • Non-invasive procedure
  • Pinpoint precision targeting the affected area
  • Minimal damage to surrounding tissues
  • Short recovery time
  • High success rates in treating brain conditions

Conditions Treated with Gamma Knife Surgery

1. Brain Tumors
  • Metastatic Brain Tumors: Secondary tumors that have spread from cancer elsewhere in the body.
  • Meningiomas: Typically benign tumors arising from the brain’s outer membrane.
  • Acoustic Neuromas: Noncancerous tumors affecting the nerves responsible for hearing and balance.
  • Gliomas: A type of tumor that originates from glial cells in the brain.
2. Vascular Disorders
  • Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal tangles of blood vessels in the brain that can cause bleeding and neurological symptoms.
  • Cavernous Malformations: Small, abnormal clusters of blood vessels that can lead to seizures and other symptoms.
3. Functional Brain Disorders
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
  • Essential Tremor: A movement disorder characterized by involuntary shaking, which may improve with targeted radiation.
  • Parkinson’s Disease: In some cases, Gamma Knife surgery may help manage symptoms related to this neurological condition.

How Gamma Knife Surgery Works

1. Pre-Treatment Planning
Before the procedure, a multidisciplinary team including neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical physicists carefully plans the treatment using imaging techniques such as MRI, CT scans, and angiography. These images help pinpoint the exact location of the abnormality.
 
2. Immobilization
To ensure precision, the patient’s head is stabilized using a lightweight stereotactic frame or a frameless mask system. This prevents any movement that could affect the accuracy of the radiation delivery.
 
 
3. Radiation Delivery
The Gamma Knife system uses multiple beams of gamma radiation focused on the target area. The radiation is delivered in a single session, with each beam passing harmlessly through healthy tissue until they converge at the target, delivering a powerful dose to eliminate abnormal cells.
 
 
4. Post-Treatment Care
After procedure, patients can usually return home the same day. Follow-up imaging and medical consultations ensure the treatment’s effectiveness and monitor for any side effects.
 
 

Benefits of Gamma Knife Surgery

  • Non-Invasive: No need for scalpels, incisions, or general anesthesia.
  • High Precision: Protects healthy brain tissue while effectively targeting abnormal areas.
  • Outpatient Procedure: Most patients return home the same day.
  • Minimal Recovery Time: Faster recovery compared to conventional brain surgery.
  • Reduced Risks: Lower risk of infections, bleeding, or other surgical complications.

Recovery and Side Effects

  • Mild headache or nausea
  • Temporary swelling at the treatment site
  • Fatigue for a few days post-treatment
  • Rare cases of delayed radiation effects, such as swelling or necrosis of treated tissue

Who is a Candidate for Gamma Knife Surgery?

  • Patients may be considered for Gamma Knife surgery if they:
  • Have brain tumors or disorders that cannot be treated through conventional surgery
  • Require a less invasive treatment option due to age or other medical conditions
  • Need precise radiation treatment with minimal side effects
  • A thorough evaluation by a neurosurgeon and radiation oncologist determines eligibility.Contact Us

Conclusion

Gamma Knife surgery is a game-changer in the treatment of brain disorders, providing a highly precise, effective, and minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. With its proven track record in treating brain tumors, vascular malformations, and functional neurological conditions, it remains a preferred choice for both doctors and patients worldwide.Schedule your Consultation with Dr. Ritesh Nawkhare 

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