gamma knife radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery technique using focused gamma rays for precise treatment of small orbital and optic pathway tumors.
Full Definition
Gamma knife radiosurgery is a non-invasive stereotactic technique that delivers highly focused gamma radiation to small, well-defined targets within the orbit or visual pathway. The system uses multiple cobalt-60 sources arranged in a hemispherical array to create precise radiation beams that converge on the target while minimizing dose to surrounding structures. In ocular oncology, gamma knife is primarily used for optic nerve gliomas, meningiomas affecting the visual pathway, and small orbital tumors where conventional surgery poses high risk. Treatment is typically delivered in a single fraction with submillimeter accuracy using rigid head frame fixation. The steep dose gradient allows tumor control while preserving adjacent critical structures.
Usage
Usage note: Gamma Knife is a proprietary name and should be capitalized when referring to the specific system.
In Context
- "Gamma knife radiosurgery was selected for the small optic nerve sheath meningioma to preserve visual function." — Treatment planning note
- "The patient underwent gamma knife radiosurgery with excellent tumor control at two-year follow-up." — Outcome assessment