Next the patient is placed on a special couch that moves the head into proper position inside the Gamma Knife hemisphere for the procedure. Since the Gamma Knife is minimally invasive, patients experience virtually no discomfort during the treatments. About one hour after the procedure, the patient is moved to a hospital room for overnight observation. Most patients go home the next morning. The results of Gamma Knife radiosurgery appear over days, weeks or months, depending on the type of lesion being treated.
Most lesions dissolve or sclerose gradually, eventually disappearing.
Others simply exhibit no further growth. The referring physician is an active partner in the treatment process. All follow-up studies, treatment studies and progress outcome is done in conjunction with the patient's physician. This is especially important since the effects of Gamma Knife surgery occur over a period of time that can range from days to several years, depending on the type of lesion. Patient Selection Selection of patients for Gamma Knife surgery involves a multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists and other specialists.