For Referring Physicians

Common indications for Gamma Knife^®

Gamma Knife offers hope to patients with tumors formerly considered inoperable and those considered high-risk for open surgical procedures due to illness, advanced age or other medical conditions. Patients may be eligible for Gamma Knife even if they previously had open brain surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, or embolization for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Patients are frequently referred for the following conditions:

• Metastatic tumors within the head originating from a primary site elsewhere in the body
• Malignant or benign tumors originating within the brain or its coverings, including gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary and pineal tumors, acoustic neuromas, and others
• AVMs and other vascular disorders of the brain
• Trigeminal neuralgia when conservative treatment fails
• Movement disorders such as essential tremor in patients who are not candidates for deep brain stimulation (DBS)

Patient Risks

Treatment-day side effects may include headache after removal of the head frame, if used, or mild nausea; both can be relieved with medication. Uncommon, delayed complications may include radiation-induced damage to surrounding brain tissue and edema. Some injuries may be reversible with proper treatment. Other rare complications are dependent on diagnosis and discussed with the patient during evaluation.

Insurance Coverage

Gamma Knife procedures are covered by most medical insurance plans. Prior authorization is required and limited to specific diagnostic reasons. South Sound Gamma Knife at St. Joseph will preauthorize the procedure with your patient’s insurance carrier.