The Gamma Knife Centre combines the unique expertise of the
Krembil Brain Institute,
UHN Medical Imaging, and the
Princess Margaret Radiation Medicine Program.
The Gamma Knife is a form of radiosurgery – it's a radiation tool known for its precise treatment for targeted areas of the brain.
The Gamma Knife itself is made up of focused beams of radiation that deliver single doses of therapy with the precision of less than one millimetre. We use this for areas of the brain where surgery would be too difficult or too dangerous. The exposure is brief and only the tissue being treated receives a significant radiation dose, while the surrounding tissue remains unharmed.
We are currently the only Gamma Knife center in Ontario, and we accept referrals from all over the province and across the country.
Is Gamma Knife radiosurgery the right treatment for you?
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is performed without incisions or the need for general anesthesia. This means there's virtually none of the risks (say, infection or bleeding) that would normally be involved with conventional neurosurgery. There's also generally no hair loss, nausea or vomiting after the treatment.
Patients are discharged from the Gamma Knife Centre on the day of treatment and are usually able to return to their normal activities within a day or two. Most of the time, you won't even need to come back for a repeat treatment.
How to Prepare
When you are given a clinic appointment, you will be seen by a team of neurosurgeons and radiation oncology doctors. Your clinical information and imaging will be reviewed. If gamma knife radiosurgery is recommended, you will be shown a video of what the procedure is like, and what to expect. You will have ample time to ask questions. Your treatment date will be booked at that time.
Learn more about
what you can expect when you have a clinic appointment.
