Because the effects of Gamma Knife treatment occur over a period of months to years, periodic MRI scans or angiograms are necessary to follow resolution of the lesion. For more detailed patient information, click here . Some patients may experience mild headaches or nausea on the day of treatment. These effects usually subside within 24 hours. Other patients experience discomfort or numbness at the head frame pin site, which usually resolves within a few days.
Hair loss is very unusual.
Depending on the type, size and location of the lesion, a small number of patients may experience some temporary or, in some cases, permanent neurological deficits as a consequence of the radiation. These deficits are typically mild, and in many cases, transient. The Gamma Knife has an extremely low morbidity and negligible mortality risk. For some patients, it is the only option for treatment. Non-Invasive Gamma Knife Radiosurgery requires no incision.