• Is Gamma Knife treatment effective?
• Is Gamma Knife approved by the FDA?
• How quickly will the treatment work?
• What if I am an older patient or have other medical conditions?
• Can the Gamma Knife be used on children?
• What are the side effects?
• What about the radiation risk?
• Is Gamma Knife treatment more or less expensive than traditional surgery?
• How are patients referred to the Sutter Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Center?

Is Gamma Knife treatment effective? | back to top
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Centers worldwide have recorded more than 30 years of detailed treatment follow-up. Their results indicate the Gamma Knife is superior or comparable to traditional neurosurgery, depending on the specific condition treated. In addition, there are no, or very limited, immediate complications of any kind associated with the Gamma Knife procedure.

Is Gamma Knife approved by the FDA? | back to top
Yes, the Gamma Knife procedure was approved by the FDA in 1989 and has since been used to treat hundreds of thousands of patients around the world.

How quickly will the treatment work? | back to top
The effect of a Gamma Knife treatment can be seen in weeks to months. In some circumstances, such as with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), results can take two to three years.

What if I am an older patient or have other medical conditions? | back to top
Patients of advanced age or in poor medical condition can be at an unacceptably high risk for anesthesia and conventional surgery, making Gamma Knife treatment an ideal solution.

Can the Gamma Knife be used on children? | back to top
Yes, Sutter Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Center has extensive experience in treating children. Because the Gamma Knife is pain free and precise, and offers fast recovery times, it is often the treatment of choice for children. Unlike adults, children typically receive general anesthesia to ensure they remain still and comfortable during the procedure.

What are the side effects? | back to top
Patients may experience side effects, but they are often very mild. Infrequent headaches and nausea can occur within 24 hours of treatment. Both are short term, uncommon, and effectively treated if brought to the attention of the doctor or nurse. The side effects are related to the site treatment. Your doctor will provide additional information.

What about the radiation risk? | back to top
The dose of radiation is extremely focused to the target in the brain and the dose outside the target is very low.

Is Gamma Knife treatment more or less expensive than traditional surgery? | back to top
Gamma Knife technology eliminates lengthy hospital stays and costly medication, and greatly improves recovery time, making the treatment significantly less expensive than traditional surgery. Because of the success rate and the decreased expense, Medicare and most insurance providers authorize the procedure.

How are patients referred to the Sutter Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Center? | back to top
Most patients are referred by their doctors, although many patients self refer. Prior to Gamma Knife treatment, our multidisciplinary committee meets to review each patient's medical records and diagnostic images. Referring doctors continue to be involved in the patient's follow-up care. Doctors and patients can call (888) 287-2270 toll free to discuss a referral to the Sutter Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Center.