George Bovis M.D. in Illinois incorporates the Gamma Knife as a minimally invasive way to treat brain tumors. After the Gamma Knife procedure, patients go home the same day. The treatment takes 30-45 minutes. The success rate for a small to medium rate tumor is about 95-98%. It delivers precise radiation to prevent the tumor from dividing. Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery is a noninvasive method of treating a variety of brain lesions, tumors, and other disorders. There is no cutting or scalpels used. Gamma Knife allows neurosurgeons to treat abnormal areas of the brain with the highest degree of precision — and zero incisions. Tiny beams of radiation pinpoint their target down to the sub-millimeter. This ensures minimal side effects.
The patients I spoke with had minimal side effects with the Gamma Knife procedure. However, side effects may include cerebral edema, headache, nausea, numbness or weakness in the face, loss of balance, vision problems, hair loss near the treated area (the hair loss is usually temporary), and seizures. Medication can be used for many of these side effects. Radiosurgery is especially important for patients who have no other treatment options, including those not eligible for standard surgical techniques due to illness or advanced age.