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Gamma Knife radiosurgery

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery is a highly precise, non‑invasive form of stereotactic radiosurgery used to treat a range of intracranial tumors, vascular malformations and select neurological conditions.

Despite its name, this procedure does not involve a surgical incision. Instead, it delivers focused beams of gamma radiation to a defined target in the brain, aiming to control growth, stabilise abnormal tissue or modulate dysfunctional neural pathways with millimetric accuracy.

This technique is especially valuable when traditional open surgery carries elevated risks or is not feasible due to the location of the lesion. It can be suitable for both benign and malignant tumors, certain vascular anomalies, and selected functional neurological disorders.

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition being treated. Gamma Knife may be considered for:

  • Headaches, seizures or neurological deficits from brain tumors
  • Facial pain (e.g., trigeminal neuralgia)
  • Neurological symptoms related to vascular malformations
  • Movement disorders or functional conditions when appropriate

The presence of these symptoms in the context of an intracranial lesion may prompt further evaluation.

Assessment for Gamma Knife radiosurgery includes thorough neurological evaluation and detailed imaging studies. Typical diagnostic steps include:

  • MRI of the brain to define the target lesion
  • CT or angiographic studies for vascular abnormalities
  • Review of prior treatments and clinical history

This comprehensive evaluation ensures precision in treatment planning and selection of suitable candidates.

 

Gamma Knife radiosurgery involves delivering multiple converging beams of gamma radiation to the target area in the brain. Each individual beam is low intensity, but where they meet at the target, the cumulative dose disrupts abnormal cells or abnormal circuitry while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

The procedure is usually performed as a single outpatient session without general anesthesia and with minimal recovery time. Depending on the lesion type and clinical context, follow‑up imaging and clinical monitoring are essential.

Neurosurgery

Pioneers in modern neurosurgery with extensive collaborations worldwide. Neurosurgery
Image of the gamma knife at Karolinska, Solna.
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Gamma Knife
Since the invention of the Gamma Knife at Karolinska in the 1960s, we are the only hospital in the world with more than 50 years of experience treating patients with the device.