Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Choosing a Gamma Knife™ Center/Surgeon

Needing to have brain surgery is stressful for patients. Choosing a qualified, experienced center and surgeon can help alleviate the stress and result in better outcomes. Patients and their primiary physicians should look for the following characteristics to help choose the best Gamma Knife™ center and surgeon for their situation.

Experience

It is preferable to choose a surgeon who has considerable experience in a range of conditions, including meningiomas, acoustic neuromas, metastatic brain tumors and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). A reliable Gamma Knife™ surgeon has experience with the technique based on performing dozens of procedures, has experience with the specific type of tumor or vascular lesion, and is equipped to deal with any potential complications that may arise.

Involved in Research and Publishing

Patients benefit from the expertise of a surgeon who is conducting research and publishing research findings. Surgeons who conduct research and publish are very aware of the latest findings related to Gamma Knife™ technology, are up-to-date on the latest techniques and have followed patients over time to measure outcomes including tumor recurrence and quality of life.

The Latest Technology and Equipment

An excellent Gamma Knife™ center uses the latest software and equipment (the most recent is the "Model C"). Leading centers also have high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and digital angiography capability that transfers images directly to the Gamma Knife™ planning station used by the neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists to plan the most effective approach to treating the patient.

Extensive Training

A Gamma Knife™ surgeon should have extensive residency and fellowship training with other, more experienced surgeons. This training should have been at large, busy radiosurgery practices with the opportunity to gain experience using the tool to treat patients who have a variety of tumors and vascular lesions.

A Multidisciplinary Physician Team

Patients benefit greatly by having physicians from many specialties caring for them and sharing information and experience. An excellent physician team would include a neurosurgeon experienced in Gamma Knife™ and other radiosurgery techniques as well as conventional neurosurgery; a neuro-oncologist; and a neuroradiologist. In addition, specialized technicians and nurses add to the quality of care for patients.

Physicians and nurses should be readily available after the patient returns home to answer questions or address concerns. Clear communication after surgery is essential for good patient care and outcomes.

Low Complication Rates.

An excellent center will maintain a database of their patients and keep track of their progress and outcomes over time. Choose a Gamma Knife™ center that has a low rate of complications following gamma knife treatment and that can provide the data for their outcomes upon request.