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

Do I say overnight at the hospital?
Yes, the hospital policy requires all patient who are treated with the Gamma Knife to spend the night for observation.

Does insurance cover the cost for gamma knife?
Gamma Knife is a Medicare-approved procedure, so most insurance 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.  Regrowth 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.