As the fourth in the nation to receive the newest Gamma Knife technology, the Elekta Esprit, Methodist Hospitals is proud to be a leader not only in Northwest Indiana but also across the country. Methodist Hospitals has used Gamma Knife technology for several years and was thrilled to be among the first to receive the latest updates.
The new Gamma Knife comes with important benefits, including the option to choose between a stereotactic head frame or a facial mask, and pinpoint precision due to its new technology and the use of 3D imaging.
With this new stereotactic head frame that is much lighter than previous versions, there is more flexibility in treating patients. The ability to pinpoint exactly where the tumor is and where it ends helps to preserve as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible while removing harmful tumors, delivering the best possible results for patients.
This new technology comes with the ability to shorten the treatment day, as Methodist Hospitals can schedule MRIs prior to the treatment day and offer remote planning for providers.
“I have a background in working in neurointensive care as a staff nurse, and it's very rewarding to see that this procedure is not invasive,” said Neuroscience Director Sarah Baran. “It's an outpatient procedure, so there's minimal disruption to the patient’s life versus going through a traditional craniotomy for tumor removal. A traditional craniotomy would involve having an extended hospital stay, rehabilitation, and a risk of infection or complications.”
Providing this minimally invasive outpatient procedure that yields great results is an indication of Methodist Hospitals’ dedication to its patients and communities.
“Methodist Hospitals is committed to offering the best possible care to all of those in need as part of the hospital’s mission statement,” Baran said. “The Gamma Knife is part of staying true to that mission statement. We look to invest and reach out to the community so that there are fewer hardships in pursuing the best treatment options available.”
Baran revealed that completing a Gamma Knife treatment takes a full, high-quality team. The use of the Gamma Knife helps Methodist Hospitals pave new avenues to better health and further promotes expertise within the organization.
“The Gamma Knife treatment involves a collaboration of different disciplines: neurosurgery, radiation oncology, physics, and nursing. Methodist Hospitals has the highly skilled collaborative team necessary to provide this treatment,” Baran said.
For more information about the new Gamma Knife Elekta Esprit and Methodist Hospitals, visit methodisthospitals.org.
