Stereotactic radiosurgery with the Gamma Knife produces highly localized radiobiologic effects. Typical doses range from 12 to 25 Gy at the target periphery, with higher doses within the target. Treatment generally is well tolerated. Indications for treatment include vascular malformations and primary and metastatic tumors, both benign and malignant, involving the brain.
Shrinkage of treated tumors tends to be slow, and stabilization of previously expanding tumor masses occurs in the vast majority of cases. Prospective trials are now being performed to determine the proper place of this technique in managing tumors involving the brainstem and other areas of the brain.
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