Top 3 answers to Gamma Knife® questions

We've noticed an increase in the number of questions from patients about Gamma Knife® since Martin Kemp of Spandau Ballet and East Enders began to talk about his own treatment.

Here are the top three questions with answers about Gamma Knife®.

1. What conditions can be treated by Gamma Knife®?

Despite the name, Gamma Knife® isn't actually a knife at all. It's a sophisticated piece of equipment which allows surgeons to deliver radiotherapy with precision in order to treat various neurological problems. Conditions which are suitable for Gamma Knife® treatment include

• Acoustic Neuroma
• AVMs (Arteriovenous Malformations)
• Meningioma
• Metastatic Tumours
• Pituitary Adenoma
• Trigeminal Neuralgia

2. Where can I find Gamma Knife® specialists in London?

Ian Sabin is generally recognised as the leading gamma knife specialist in London. He and his colleagues can be found at the Gamma Knife Centre at Barts and the London NHS Trust. If you have a question about Gamma Knife or would like to arrange a consultation with Ian Sabin call 01865 339402.

3. What are the key benefits of Gamma Knife® radiosurgery over conventional surgical techniques?

• The risks of infection, haemorrhage and leakage are eliminated.
• None of the scarring or disfigurement which results from conventional neurosurgery. Treatment can nearly always be delivered as a single treatment over the course of less than a day which avoids the need for multiple hospital visits.
• A single night's stay in hospital as opposed to the extended stay surgery often necessitates.
• Gamma Knife® radiosurgery is directed very specifically at the target which spares most of the adjacent normal brain tissue from exposure to unnecessary excess radiation.
• Return to work, driving, and other normal social activities within a few days.