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Following are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Gamma Knife procedure:

How long does it take to schedule the Gamma Knife treatment?
The treatment can be scheduled within a month.

Do I stay overnight at the hospital?
No, most patients are able to go home the same day.

Does insurance cover the cost for Gamma Knife?
Gamma Knife is a Medicare-approved procedure for most indications, so most insurances will cover the treatment.  The Gamma Knife staff will pre-authorize the procedure with your insurance company.

Can I take my normal medications?
Yes, the nurse will provide you with specific information at the time of consent signing.

How soon can I go back to work?
Some patients return to normal activity and work the next day.

I'm claustrophobic.  Will that be a problem?
No, you will receive sedation.

Do the pins on the frame go through the scalp?
Yes, the frame is anchored to your skull so that the frame will not move.

I already had an MRI scan.  Why do I need another one for the Gamma Knife treatment?
The MRI scan with the frame attached is required for the Gamma Knife treatment planning.

I have a pacemaker and can't have an MRI scan.  Can I be treated?
Yes, you will have a CT scan instead of an MRI scan.

When can I eat?
Nothing by mouth after midnight the night before treatment.  Upon completion of the treatment you will be able to resume eating normally.

Can I fly home after the treatment?
Yes, there is nothing prohibiting flying the day after Gamma Knife treatment.

Will I lose my hair after treatment?
99% of the time patients do not lose their hair.  Occasionally if a tumor is close to the surface of the skull a small patch of hair maybe lost.  Re-growth usually occurs within 6 months.

How long till I know if the Gamma Knife treatment worked?
You will be asked to do a follow up MRI or CT scan about 3 months after treatment.  Assessment will be made by the treating neurosurgeon at this time and further scan intervals will be determined.

Do I have to come here for follow-up?
You may have your follow up MRI or CT scan done at the facility nearest to your home or you may come here to Northwest Hospital & Medical Center.

After treatment whom do I follow up with?
You will need to continue with your referring physician.