Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for AVM

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What is Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for AVM?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery is an alternative treatment for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in cases where traditional surgery is not possible and the patient prefers a non-invasive procedure to treat a small AVM. Gamma Knife radiosurgery is offered as a treatment option for patients where the AVM is hard to reach in the brain.

This treatment precisely targets blood vessels without compromising other areas of the brain and damages the cells in the lining of the blood vessel. The Gamma Knife radiation closes off the abnormal blood vessels of the AVM by causing the inner walls to scar and close.

In the case of treating larger AVMs, multiple Gamma Knife surgery sessions may be needed.

What are the disadvantages of Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

The risks and disadvantages related to Gamma Knife radiosurgery are typically low and may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin coloration and bruising at pin placement sites
• Tingling or numb sensation on the scalp at the site of the pin placement

Who is not a candidate for Gamma Knife surgery?

Not all candidates are suitable for Gamma Knife surgery. If the candidate has a very large AVM, an AVM located near critical brain structures, or if the patient’s overall health is not suitable for the procedure, then the potential risks of radiation damage outweigh the potential benefits of the treatment.

What are the side effects of Gamma Knife for AVM?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery for AVMs is generally a safe and effective treatment, but there may be the following side effects:

• Immediate side effects: Nausea, headaches, vomiting, swelling, soreness at the treatment site, irritation and redness of the skin
• Delayed side effects: Localized brain swelling, hair loss and facial numbness

Your doctor can monitor swelling and prescribe medications following the procedure. Most side effects are mild and resolve within a few days.

What is the recovery time for Gamma Knife AVM?

The recovery time for a Gamma Knife procedure to treat an AVM is very short, with most patients being able to resume their normal activities within a day or two following the procedure.

For an AVM to fully resolve, it may take several months or even years, with regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress.

What is the success rate of Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery AVM has a 70-85% success rate after 3-5 years. The treatment is considered generally safe when treating small AVMs smaller than 3 centimeters. The general rule of thumb is that the smaller the AVM, the better the outcome.

In the case of an AVM being between 1 to 2 centimeters, Gamma Knife treatment results are as high as 95%. Meanwhile, multiple treatment sessions may be required if larger AVMs are treated using the Gamma knife.

Overall, the success rate of Gamma Knife radiosurgery depends on:

• The location of the AVM
• The size of the AVM

What is the life expectancy of a person with Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

The life expectancy of a person with Gamma Knife radiosurgery for an AVM is generally close to that of the general population since the procedure aims to eliminate the AVM and reduce the risk of bleeding.

Most patients experience a good quality of life following treatment. The size and location of the AVM, the patient’s overall health, and potential complications can influence the outcome of the procedure.