Gamma Knife radiotherapy for tumor treatment
Gamma Knife Radiotherapy for Tumor Treatment
What is Gamma Knife Radiotherapy for Tumors?
It is one of the advanced techniques used in treating brain tumors. It relies on the use of Gamma rays, which are somewhat similar to X-rays but more powerful. Multiple low-energy yet highly effective Gamma beams are directed and focused precisely on the tumor site to target it accurately, aiming to disrupt its genetic material and thereby destroy it.
Advantages of Gamma Knife Radiotherapy for Tumors
- Highly effective: A single session can equal up to 30 sessions of conventional radiotherapy.
- Quick recovery: Patients can usually resume normal daily activities the day after treatment.
- Focused and safe: Most treatment plans require only one session.
- No hair loss as a side effect.
- Patients can eat and drink immediately after the session.
- No residual radiation remains in the body to affect others.
- No need to shave the head before treatment.
Medical Indications for Gamma Knife Therapy
Gamma rays are used in the following cases:
- Brain tumors: whether benign or malignant.
- Acoustic neuroma: a benign tumor that enlarges and compresses the auditory nerve, causing hearing loss, tinnitus, or dizziness. Gamma Knife therapy can stop its growth and reduce size.
- Pituitary tumors: usually benign; treatment aims to stop or shrink the tumor, resolving related health issues.
- Tumors extending into the neck or nasopharyngeal tumors.
- Optic nerve tumors.
- Meningiomas.
- Pineal gland tumors.
Additionally, Gamma Knife is also used for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and nerve pain syndromes, especially trigeminal neuralgia.
Preparations Before Treatment
- Fasting: No food or drink for at least 8 hours before the session.
- Removal of all jewelry, glasses, contact lenses, or dentures before the session.
How is Gamma Knife Therapy Performed?
The patient lies on a treatment bed that slides into the Gamma Knife machine. The head is secured using a helmet with a metallic frame. Gamma beams are then precisely directed at the tumor, damaging the DNA of the cancer cells and preventing their spread.
Side Effects and Possible Risks
Gamma Knife therapy is considered very safe, and side effects are usually mild and temporary, including:
- Mild headaches.
- Fatigue.
- Tingling or numbness in the scalp.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Mild scalp irritation or inflammation.
In rare cases, mild swelling in brain tissue may occur near the treatment site, which can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication.
Success Rates of Gamma Knife Therapy
- Brain tumors:
- Primary tumors (e.g., gliomas): 60%–80% success rate in reducing or stopping tumor growth.
- Secondary (metastatic) tumors: 50%–70% success rate.
- Vascular malformations (AVMs): 70%–90% success depending on size and type.
- Neurological disorders:
- Optic neuritis: 60%–80% improvement or stabilization.
- Epilepsy: 50%–70% reduction in seizures or partial symptom control.
Factors affecting success: tumor size, location, number of sessions, patient’s overall health, and precision of targeting.
Post-Treatment Symptoms
- Temporary pain or discomfort at the treatment site.
- Numbness or sensory changes in the face.
- Mild headaches.
- Minor swelling or redness in treated areas.
- Temporary neurological changes (rare).
Most side effects are mild and improve over time. Continuous follow-up with the medical team is essential.
Gamma Knife in Turkey – Excellence with Dr. Al-Akkad’s Team
Turkey is one of the world’s leading destinations for Gamma Knife radiotherapy, offering advanced medical infrastructure, modern devices, and competitive costs.
Why Turkey?
- Latest Gamma Knife machines ensuring precision.
- Lower costs compared to Western countries.
- Experienced medical teams specialized in neuro-oncology.
Dr. Al-Akkad’s team is among the top providers in Turkey, offering:
- Cutting-edge equipment for maximum accuracy.
- Extensive expertise in Gamma Knife therapy.
- Comprehensive care: from diagnosis and treatment to follow-up.
Treatment Process
- Assessment and preparation: using MRI/CT to precisely locate the tumor.
- Gamma beam targeting: focused radiation destroys or shrinks the tumor.
- Follow-up: regular monitoring to track progress and manage side effects.
Cost of Gamma Knife in Turkey
- The cost ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 USD, depending on tumor type, size, location, and number of sessions required.