What, exactly, will happen on the day of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery?
After patients arrive at the Gamma Knife Center they are given a mild sedative (children are often completely anesthetized). Shortly after that time, a box-shaped head frame is attached to the head with four screws (two in front and two in back). The key to the gamma-knife’s precision lies in this box-shaped frame. The frame serves two purposes: 1. It holds the patient’s head perfectly still when radiation is given. 2. The frame acts as a reference point in determining exactly where the beams of radiation should converge. The four spots on the scalp where the screws enter are numbed first with injections containing an anesthetic similar to that used by dentists. Hair will not be shaved, but it may be tied back into a ponytail if it is long. The head-frame is lightweight, so patients are able to move their head around after the frame is attached to the skull.
Related Questions
- Do neurosurgeons performing gamma stereotactic radiosurgery (gamma knife) qualify as authorized users (AUs) with regard to the 64E-5.637(6), FAC, requirement for an AU to be physically present throughout the entire patient treatment involving the unit?
- How is CyberKnife® different from other robotic radiosurgery systems, like Gamma Knife or TomoTherapy?
- What are the results of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery?
