Radiosurgery
Radiosurgery is a neurosurgical technique that uses high-powered radiation to treat tumors and other lesions in the brain. This type of surgery is less invasive than traditional neurosurgery and can be used to treat some types of tumors that are difficult to reach with surgery. The radiation used in radiosurgery is highly focused, so it can target the tumor while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. This results in less damage to the brain and a quicker recovery for the patient. In some cases, radiosurgery may be the only treatment option available. For example, if a tumor is located in a difficult-to-reach area of the brain, radiosurgery may be the best way to treat it. Radiosurgery is a safe and effective treatment option for many people with brain tumors.
The procedure uses a linear accelerator to deliver high doses of radiation to the target area, sparing surrounding healthy tissue. Radiosurgery is usually done on an outpatient basis, and patients can typically go home the same day. Recovery time is shorter than traditional neurosurgery, and there is less risk of complications. The procedure is often used to treat brain tumors that are inoperable or difficult to reach with conventional surgery.
Radiosurgery is not suitable for every patient, and you must talk to your doctor about your treatment options before making a decision. If you are considering radiosurgery, be sure to ask about the risks and benefits and the doctor’s experience with the procedure.
Who is a good candidate for radiosurgery
To determine if someone is a good candidate for radiosurgery, doctors will consider several factors:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Stroke
- Memory loss
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
Some of these side effects are temporary and will resolve on their own, while others may be permanent. Talk to your doctor about the risks and side effects of radiosurgery before deciding to have the procedure.
What are the risks and side effects of radiosurgery?
It is generally a safe and effective treatment for various conditions, but like all surgery, there are some risks involved. The most common side effects of radiosurgery are temporary and include:
- The size, location, and type of tumor
- The age and health of the patient
- The patient’s overall health and medical history
By considering all of these factors, doctors can determine if radiosurgery is likely to be an effective treatment option. For example, radiosurgery may not be suitable for large tumors or those located close to vital organs. In addition, younger patients in good health are generally more likely to tolerate the treatment well. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to proceed with radiosurgery will be made on a case-by-case basis.
How to recover after radiosurgery
Most people experience only mild side effects after radiosurgery, and many can go home the same day. Following your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care is vital, including taking it easy for a few days and avoiding strenuous activity.
Recovery time after radiosurgery is typically shorter than traditional neurosurgery, so most people can expect to return to their normal activities within a week or two. In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as seizures or stroke. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must contact your doctor immediately. With proper care and follow-up, radiosurgery can effectively treat many conditions.
How to prepare for radiosurgery
If you are considering radiosurgery, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the procedure:
- Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of radiosurgery. Make sure you understand what to expect before making a decision.
- Get any pre-operative tests that may be required. Your doctor will let you know what tests are necessary.
- Quit smoking and drinking alcohol in advance of the procedure. These habits can increase the risk of complications.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care. This may include taking it easy for a few days and avoiding strenuous activity.
Taking these steps can help ensure a successful outcome from radiosurgery.
What to expect during and after radiosurgery
During radiosurgery, the patient will be positioned on the treatment table, and a head frame will be attached to their skull. This frame will help keep the patient’s head still during the procedure. The linear accelerator will be positioned above the patient’s head, and radiation will be delivered to the tumor site.
Most patients report only mild side effects during radiosurgery, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. The procedure usually lasts for a few minutes, and patients can go home the same day.
Some patients may experience temporary or permanent side effects, such as memory loss, numbness or tingling in the extremities, or problems with balance. Talk to your doctor about the risks and side effects of radiosurgery before deciding to have the procedure.
At Mariwalla Neurosurgery, our goal is to educate our patients about conditions and treatments for brain and spinal column tumors. We invite you to call (631) 500-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Nitin Mariwalla.
Radiosurgery is a safe and effective treatment for many people with brain tumors. This type of surgery is less invasive than traditional neurosurgery and can be used to treat some types of tumors that are difficult to reach with surgery. The radiation used in radiosurgery is highly focused, so it can target the tumor while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. This results in less damage to the brain and a quicker recovery for the patient. In some cases, radiosurgery may be the only treatment option available. If you or someone you know has a brain tumor, please consult with your doctor about all of your treatment options.