Gamma Knife

1. What is Gamma Knife?

Gamma Knife is a specialised radiosurgery system that delivers precisely focused radiation to a defined target while minimising radiation exposure to surrounding healthy brain tissue.

2. When is it Recommended?

It may be recommended for selected brain tumours, brain metastases, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), vestibular schwannomas, meningiomas and certain other intracranial lesions, depending on their size, location and characteristics.

3. What Symptoms May a Patient Notice?

Symptoms depend on the condition and its location and may include headaches, seizures, hearing or vision changes, balance problems, weakness, numbness or other neurological symptoms. Some lesions may be discovered incidentally.

4. What Does the Treatment Involve?

Detailed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) imaging is used to define the treatment target. A specialised team then creates a treatment plan and delivers multiple radiation beams precisely to the target.

5. What Are the Main Treatment Options?

Depending on the diagnosis, alternatives may include conventional surgery, conventional radiation therapy, fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy, CyberKnife or observation. The appropriate treatment depends on the lesion and patient's condition.

6. How Long Does Treatment & Recovery Take?

Many Gamma Knife treatments can be completed in a single session, although some conditions may require staged or fractionated treatment. The treatment process may take several hours, and most patients can return home the same day or after short observation.

7. What Are the Important Risks or Considerations?

Gamma Knife is a non-invasive treatment with a generally favourable safety profile when appropriately selected. Possible side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, temporary swelling around the treated area and radiation-related tissue changes. Rarely, more significant neurological complications can occur.

8. Why Consider Treatment in India?

India has specialised neurosurgery and radiation oncology centres offering stereotactic radiosurgery, Gamma Knife treatment, advanced brain imaging and multidisciplinary management of intracranial conditions.

9. How Can Medavelle Help?

Medavelle can assist with brain imaging and medical report review, radiation oncologist and neurosurgeon coordination, Gamma Knife suitability assessment, hospital selection, treatment planning, international patient arrangements and follow-up coordination.

10. What Should the Patient Do Next?

Share your brain scans/reports → Specialist evaluation → Lesion assessment → Gamma Knife suitability evaluation → Treatment planning in India.