Gamma Knife surgery at Ascension Illinois offers noninvasive treatment for brain tumors and neurological conditions in Chicago.
Gamma Knife surgery at Ascension Illinois offers noninvasive treatment for brain tumors and neurological conditions in Chicago.
Gamma Knife® radiosurgery is a type of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) that uses highly focused beams of radiation to target certain conditions in the brain and upper spine with exceptional precision.
Unlike traditional open surgery, Gamma Knife treatment doesn’t involve an incision or general anesthesia. Instead, small radiation beams are directed at the treatment area while minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Gamma Knife surgery may be recommended as an alternative to open surgery for some patients, especially when tumors or lesions are located in deep or sensitive areas of the brain.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is used to treat a wide range of brain tumors, neurological disorders and vascular conditions:
Before Gamma Knife radiosurgery, you’ll meet with your neurosurgeon and care team to review your medical history, imaging results and treatment plan.
Your care team may provide instructions about:
Your surgeon and care team will answer any questions and help you understand what to expect before, during and after treatment.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
During treatment:
Treatment times vary depending on the condition being treated, but many procedures are completed in a single session. Because Gamma Knife treatment is noninvasive, most patients are able to return home the same day.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is generally well tolerated, but like all medical procedures, there are potential risks and side effects.
Possible side effects of treatment may include:
Your care team will monitor you closely and provide instructions for recovery and follow-up care.
Many people are able to return to their normal activities within a day or two of Gamma Knife treatment. Recovery times vary depending on the condition treated and your overall health.
You may need to schedule follow-up appointments and imaging afterwards to monitor your response to treatment.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery has been used safely for more than 50 years to treat brain and neurological conditions. Results vary depending on the condition being treated. Some tumors or lesions may shrink gradually over time, while other conditions may stabilize or improve after treatment.
At Ascension Alexian Brothers, our program has been certified for more than 20 years. We combine advanced technology with compassionate, personalized care to help support you throughout treatment and recovery.
The Gamma Knife Center at Ascension Illinois provides advanced stereotactic radiosurgery for complex brain and neurological conditions. As one of only a few Gamma Knife centers in Illinois, we offer access to highly specialized expertise close to home.
People choose Ascension Illinois for Gamma Knife treatment because we provide:
Our care team works closely with referring physicians and other specialists to coordinate care.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is considered a non-invasive surgical treatment because it uses focused radiation instead of an incision or traditional surgery.
Treatment times vary depending on the condition being treated, but many procedures are completed in a single session over several hours.
Most patients remain awake during treatment. Your care team will help keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Gamma Knife treatment itself is generally painless. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or temporary side effects afterward.
Many patients resume normal activities within a day or two, depending on their condition and overall health.
Gamma Knife treatment may help shrink, control or stop the growth of some tumors and lesions. Your results depend on the type, size and location of the condition being treated.
If you have questions about your diagnosis or treatment plan, a second opinion can help you better understand your options. Our specialists can review your medical records and history to provide an additional perspective. Before your appointment, check with your insurance provider to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records from your doctor on your behalf so they can be shared before your visit.
Referring your patients is simple and hassle-free. Send your patient’s medical records, and we'll take it from there — keeping you in the loop throughout the process while ensuring your patient gets the advanced care they need.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.
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