What Is Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
A widely held belief is that Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is a surgery. This may not necessarily be true, since the term does not indicate the cutting of any tissue. Stereotactic Radiosurgery can be described as a form of highly accurate radiation therapy that utilizes radiation beams to target a small, specific portion of the brain. Since there is no incision, general anesthesia becomes unnecessary, and the patient is likely to be conscious throughout the treatment.
While conventional radiotherapy treatment may take weeks, Stereotactic Radiosurgery is normally carried out in one or a few treatments. In Kochi, Stereotactic Radiosurgery is used as an option to treat specific brain disorders using technology.
How Stereotactic Radiosurgery Works
In Stereotactic Radiosurgery, initial images are taken through MRI and CT scanning to get an exact 3D image of the tumour or vascular abnormality. The computer software calculates the necessary dose of radiation and trajectory for treating that target.
In the process of SRS Treatment, numerous high energy beams of radiation are focused at the abnormality from various directions; in this way, a high dose of radiation reaches the abnormality while sparing the healthy brain structures surrounding the abnormality.
For accuracy, stereotactic head frames or a specially designed head mask is utilized to fix the head.
Conditions Treated with Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Radiosurgery for Brain Tumor can be performed for both benign and malignant brain tumours, primary or metastatic brain tumours that have metastasized from other regions in the body. Radiosurgery for Brain Tumor could also be recommended for residual tumour tissue left after surgery by traditional means.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery is usually performed for hard-to-reach intracranial tumours located at the skull base and orbit.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for AVM is performed to treat arteriovenous malformations, which involve abnormal connections of blood vessels inside the brain that may increase the risk of bleeding.
Functional neurological disorders such as Trigeminal Neuralgia Radiosurgery and essential tremor can also be treated using this procedure. Whether it is suitable or not depends on the characteristics of the lesion.
What to Expect During Treatment
In preparation for Stereotactic Radiosurgery, a planning procedure is carried out using MRI or CT scans for accurate identification of the targeted region for treatment.
On the actual date of treatment, the patient may have a stereotactic head frame placed under local anesthesia, or a special mask may be used to keep the head stationary during treatment.
SRS Treatment is normally performed as an outpatient procedure and takes about 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the complexity of the condition. There is no pain during the procedure, and patients remain awake while being continuously monitored throughout the treatment.
Benefits of Stereotactic Radiosurgery vs Surgery
One of the advantages of Stereotactic Radiosurgery vs Surgery is that there is no incision involved, and general anesthesia is rarely needed.
Treatment usually requires only one or a few sessions, whereas traditional radiation therapy may require many sessions over several weeks.
Because the radiation is highly focused, there is minimal exposure of healthy brain tissue compared with broader radiation techniques. Recovery is generally faster than after open brain surgery, and Stereotactic Radiosurgery can also be used for tumours located in areas that are difficult to reach surgically.
Radiosurgery Side Effects and Radiosurgery Recovery
Although Stereotactic Radiosurgery is non-invasive, Radiosurgery Side Effects may still occur.
Short-term side effects can include:
- Tiredness
- Mild headache
- Nausea
- Temporary scalp irritation, especially when a head frame is used
In some cases, patients may develop swelling in the treated area, which can cause a temporary worsening of neurological symptoms. Serious complications are uncommon and usually depend on the size and location of the lesion being treated.
Radiosurgery Recovery is generally quick, and many patients are able to return to their usual activities within a few days.
Follow-up MRI scans are performed because treatment effects, such as tumour shrinkage or AVM closure, usually develop gradually over weeks or months.
When Should You Consider Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
If you have a brain tumour, arteriovenous malformation (AVM), or trigeminal neuralgia, Stereotactic Radiosurgery may be considered when exploring non-surgical treatment options.
It is often most suitable for lesions that are small, well-defined, or located in areas where conventional surgery may carry a higher risk. Stereotactic Radiosurgery may also be recommended when residual tumour tissue remains after a previous operation.
Questions regarding Radiosurgery Cost are discussed individually, as the total cost depends on factors such as the hospital, the technology used, the complexity of the condition, and the number of treatment sessions required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stereotactic Radiosurgery painful?
No. The radiation delivery itself is painless, and patients remain awake throughout the procedure.
How many sessions of SRS Treatment are needed?
Many treatments are completed in a single session, although some conditions may require two to five carefully planned sessions.
Is Gamma Knife the same as Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Gamma Knife is one specific technology used to perform Stereotactic Radiosurgery; it is not the only system available for SRS treatment.
How long does it take to see results after Stereotactic Radiosurgery?
Results usually appear gradually, and MRI scans may show tumour control or shrinkage several weeks or months after treatment.
Where can I get Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Kochi, Kerala?
Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Kochi, Kerala, is a treatment option that may be considered based on an individual’s condition and clinical evaluation by a qualified specialist, such as Dr. Arun Oommen.