A brief description of the Gamma Knife procedure

A multidisciplinary team of neurological surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiologists, nurses and physician assistants unite to provide the patient with comprehensive, advanced care before, during, and after the procedure.

Patients are selected for radiosurgery after thorough review of all prior records and imaging studies. After admission to the hospital, the patient undergoes placement of a stereotactic frame -- mechanical guiding device -- to the head, utilizing local anesthesia and sedation. 

The location and type of tumor or AVM (arterial venous malformation) are evaluated with advanced imaging technology, such as computed tomography (CT), angiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).  Computer planning of the treatment is then performed.  Then, the patient's head and stereotactic frame are placed within a large helmet-like device with small openings called "collimator ports."

Radiation beams are adjusted through these ports to direct the appropriate amount of energy precisely at the target tissue.

The Gamma Knife suite at MCG Medical Center is an expansive area of patient prep and dose planning rooms designed for maximum patient comfort, evaluation and treatment.

The actual Gamma Knife unit is housed in a specially shielded room equipped with video monitoring and patient-doctor communication equipment. The suite also contains equipment to provide general anesthesia to  the patient if necessary.