If you have been diagnosed with brain metastases (cancer that has spread to the brain), you’ve likely heard about several possible treatment options for your condition, including Gamma Knife radiosurgery, whole-brain radiation and others. It’s important to choose the treatment that can give you the best possible outcome with the least number of side effects. Here’s what you can expect from Gamma Knife treatment:
With Gamma Knife, 192 beams of concentrated radiation converge at the treatment site to attack brain metastases. Only the tumors receive radiation, sparing the rest of the brain from unnecessary exposure to radiation.
Performed as an outpatient procedure, treatment is completed in just one session (compared to multiple sessions for other types of radiation treatment). No incisions are made, and patients are on their way home in just a few hours.
Because the healthy parts of the brain do not receive radiation during Gamma Knife treatment, there is less risk of long-term cognitive side effects like memory loss or speech problems. (These may occur with other treatments, such as whole-brain radiation.) Fewer long-term radiation side effects mean a greater quality of life post-treatment.
If you’re ready to explore Gamma Knife radiosurgery, learn more about our team and contact us to schedule a consultation.
