A stereotactic head frame is applied and an MRI or CT scanning procedure is performed to locate the lesion. The patient then rests while the treatment plan is developed using an advanced dose planning program. 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.