Gamma Knife
- May 13
- 3 min read
Updated: May 21
Dr. Prem Pillay, Singapore
Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with super specialty training in Neurosurgical Oncology
(Fellow at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Hospital, U of Texas, USA)\
What is the Gamma Knife?
The Gamma Knife is a specialized medical device used to treat brain disorders, particularly tumors and other abnormalities. Despite its name, it doesn’t involve any actual cutting. Instead, it uses focused beams of Gamma Rays to target and treat specific areas within the brain. This non-invasive technique is known as stereotactic radiosurgery. The Gamma Knife is highly precise, allowing doctors to treat brain conditions without the need for traditional surgery. Dr Prem Pillay, spearheaded the setting up of the first Gamma Knife Center in Singapore and the Region (South East Asia and South Asia). He currently treats patients with the latest Gamma Knife which uses Robotic assistance.
Conditions Treated with Gamma Knife
The Gamma Knife is primarily used to treat a variety of brain conditions, including:
Brain Tumors
Both benign (non-cancerous) such as Meningiomas, Acoustic Neuromas, Pituitary Tumors and malignant (cancerous) tumors can be treated.
Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)
These are abnormal tangles of blood vessels in the brain.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face.
Acoustic Neuromas
Non-cancerous tumors that develop on the nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain.
Metastatic Brain Cancers
Cancers that have spread to the brain from other parts of the body such as Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer and many other primary cancers.
Advantages Over Surgery and Other Treatments
The Gamma Knife offers several advantages over traditional surgery and other treatment methods:
Non-Invasive
There’s no need for incisions, which reduces the risk of infection and other surgical complications.
Precision
The treatment targets only the affected area, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Outpatient Procedure
Most patients can go home the same day, avoiding a hospital stay.
Minimal Recovery Time
Patients typically experience a quicker recovery compared to conventional surgery.
Less Painful
Since there are no cuts or stitches, patients usually experience less pain and discomfort.
Treatment Steps
Here’s what a typical Gamma Knife treatment involves:
Consultation
The process begins with a consultation with Dr Prem Pillay,a Neurosurgeon and Gamma Knife specialist who evaluates whether Gamma Knife treatment is appropriate for your condition.
Preparation
On the day of treatment, a lightweight frame is attached to your head to keep it still during the procedure. This ensures precision targeting.
Imaging
Detailed imaging scans (such as MRI and/or CT) are taken to pinpoint the exact location of the area to be treated.
Treatment Planning
Using advanced software with 3 D modelling of the Brain and the tumor or lesion, Dr Pillay and his team,. plan how to deliver the radiation beams most effectively and safely with high precision.
Treatment Session
You’ll lie on a bed that slides into the Gamma Knife machine. The machine delivers focused radiation beams to the targeted area in your brain. Robotic assistance is used to improve the accuracy of the treatment. Dr Prem will monitor the treatment from then adjacent control room where muliptle computer screens show the real time dose output of gamma rays and video imaging of the patient.
Post-Treatment
Once treatment is complete, the stereotactic frame is removed and you can usually return home shortly afterward.
Why People with Brain Tumors Should Consider This Treatment
Gamma Knife radio surgery is particularly beneficial for individuals with brain tumors and AVMs because it offers an effective alternative to traditional surgery with fewer risks and side effects. It’s especially useful for treating tumors and AVMS in hard-to-reach areas of the brain or for patients who cannot undergo conventional surgery due to health reasons. It is also useful for patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia.
Post-Treatment Care
After undergoing Gamma Knife treatment, patients should follow these general guidelines:
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial to monitor your progress and assess any changes in your condition.
Rest and Recovery
Although recovery time is minimal, it’s important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after treatment.
Report Symptoms
Any unusual symptoms or side effects should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Depending on your condition, you may need to make certain lifestyle adjustments as advised by your doctor.
Conclusion
The Gamma Knife represents a significant advancement in treating brain disorders with its precision and non-invasive approach. It offers hope and effective treatment options for those dealing with challenging conditions like brain tumors, AVMs and Trigeminal Neuralgia providing an alternative that minimizes risks while maximizing outcomes.
