Gamma Knife delivery of radiation A needle at the end of the IV is placed in a vein, most likely in your arm. The time needed to complete the procedure may range from less than an hour to about four hours, depending on the size and shape of the target. During the procedure: You won’t feel the radiation.
What are the side effects after a Gamma Knife surgery?
Possible Gamma Knife risks and/or side effects include:
- Headache.
- Scalp swelling.
- Red and/or irritated skin at the treatment site.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Numbness and/or weakness.
- Seizures.
- Temporary or permanent hair loss at the treatment site.
- Swelling of the brain.
What are the side effects of Gamma Knife surgery?
What are the risks and/or side effects of Gamma Knife surgery?
- Swelling of the brain.
- Headache.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Numbness/tingling sensation on the scalp at the pin placement sites.
- Hair loss (only occasionally if tumor is close to the scalp and hair follicles are irradiated).
- Seizures.
- Bleeding (brain hemorrhage).
What is Gamma Knife radiosurgery and how does it work?
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is usually a one-time therapy completed in a single day. Gamma Knife radiosurgery is often a safer alternative to standard brain surgery (neurosurgery), which requires incisions in the scalp, an opening in the skull and membranes surrounding the brain, and dissection into brain tissue.
Do you have to be awake for Gamma Knife surgery?
Adults are usually awake, but may be given a mild sedative to help them relax. A radiation oncologist monitors the Gamma Knife procedure in progress. You’ll lie on a bed that slides into the Gamma Knife machine, and your head frame will be attached securely to a helmet inside the machine.
How long does swelling last after Gamma Knife treatment?
If post-treatment swelling and symptoms do occur from the Gamma Knife treatment, these symptoms usually show up approximately six months after treatment rather than immediately after the procedure like with conventional surgery.
