From an adjacent room, the Gamma Knife treatment team remotely administers the radiation directly on the affected area as you move in and out of a shielded dome that houses the gamma source. Actual treatment can last anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours. You will not feel any pain during or after the procedure. Once treatment is completed, the stereotactic frame is removed and you will be observed for a brief period of time. Band-Aids are usually applied to the area on your forehead where the head frame was attached.
Some patients do experience a slight headache or nausea once the frame is removed.
Please let the nurse or physician know if you experience these symptoms so you can be made more comfortable. The nurse will review instructions with you before you go home. Most patients return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. A follow-up visit is scheduled to ensure the Gamma Knife treatment was successful. This website and all contents copyright MCG HealthCare, 2000.