Gamma Knife Radiotherapy

What is Gamma Knife Radiosurgery?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a highly precise, non-invasive form of radiation therapy designed to treat tumours, lesions, and abnormalities in the brain and upper spine without a surgical incision. Despite its name, Gamma Knife involves no cutting, instead, it uses 192 focused beams of cobalt-60 gamma rays to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the target area.

Each beam is weak and passes harmlessly through healthy tissue. But where all beams converge, at the tumour or lesion, it creates a powerful therapeutic effect. This precise targeting allows physicians to treat difficult-to-reach brain conditions with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.

What Conditions Can Gamma Knife Treat?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery is ideal for treating both cancerous and non-cancerous brain conditions, especially those located deep within the brain or close to vital structures. It is particularly effective for lesions smaller than 3–4 cm.

Common Conditions Treated:

· Brain tumours (gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas)

· Metastatic brain tumours

· Vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas)

· Trigeminal neuralgia (nerve-related facial pain)

· Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)

· Essential tremor & Parkinson’s disease symptoms

· Epilepsy

· Pediatric brain tumours

Types of Gamma Knife Treatment

Gamma Knife therapy falls under the broader category of Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS). It is especially valuable for:

· Single-session high-dose radiation (most procedures require only one session)

· Multiple-target radiosurgery (for patients with multiple metastases)

· Deep or surgically inoperable brain lesions

How Gamma Knife Treatment Works

Pre-Treatment Preparation:

1. Consultation with a neurosurgeon and/or radiation oncologist.

2. Imaging Tests: CT, MRI, and/or angiography scans to create 3D models of the brain.

3. Head Frame or Frameless Setup: A stereotactic head frame is often used to hold the head still. In newer models, frameless options are also available.

4. Treatment Planning: A team of specialists (neurosurgeon, oncologist, physicist) creates a personalised treatment map based on scan data.

During the Procedure:

· The patient lies on a treatment table.

· The table moves into the Gamma Knife machine.

· Gamma rays are directed to the target area using a robotic system.

· The procedure is painless and typically lasts 15–90 minutes, depending on the condition.

Post-Treatment:

· The frame is removed.

· Patients are usually discharged the same day.

· Most people return to daily activities within 24 hours.

Benefits of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

· No incisions or stitches

· Minimally impacts healthy brain tissue

· Treats deep or inoperable brain conditions

· Outpatient procedure with rapid recovery

· Precise targeting of multiple lesions in one session

· Reduced risk of infection or bleeding

· No need for general anaesthesia in most adults

Possible Side Effects

The Gamma Knife is well-tolerated, but some patients may experience temporary side effects:

Common:

· Fatigue

· Headache

· Nausea or vomiting

· Scalp soreness at pin or mask sites

· Redness or swelling at frame points

Rare but Serious:

· Brain swelling

· Seizures

· Vision or speech changes

· Hair loss near the treatment site

· Bleeding or infection at the pin sites

Seek medical attention if you experience high fever, seizures, visual changes, or unusual neurological symptoms after treatment.

When Should You Consider Gamma Knife Surgery?

You may be a candidate for Gamma Knife treatment if you:

· Have a small brain tumour or vascular malformation

· Cannot undergo open brain surgery due to health or location of the lesion

· Need high-precision treatment with minimal recovery time

· Have recurrent brain metastases or neurological pain syndromes

· Prefer a non-invasive, outpatient treatment option

Why Choose Medassure for Gamma Knife Surgery in India?

At Medassure Healthcare, we connect patients to India’s premier Gamma Knife centres, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by internationally acclaimed neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists. Our partner hospitals offer the latest Gamma Knife platforms, enabling frame-based and frameless techniques with exceptional accuracy.

Medassure offers a seamless journey, from diagnosis to recovery, by supporting:

· Expert second opinions

· Advanced imaging and treatment planning

· Treatment coordination with top hospitals

· Visa and travel assistance

· Affordable care packages with transparent pricing

· Aftercare planning and international follow-ups

Take the Non-Invasive Path to Brain Tumour Care

Experience world-class Gamma Knife treatment with trusted experts by your side. Medassure Healthcare makes high-precision radiosurgery accessible, safe, and compassionate.