Gamma Knife: Groundbreaking brain tumour treatment with high success rate makes South Asian debut in Gurugram hospital

By Shalini Bhardwaj
Gurugram (Haryana) [India], June 13 : A Gurugram Private Hospital on Thursday led the way in neurosurgical innovation as the first facility in South Asia to introduce the latest Gamma Knife technology (Gamma Knife Esprit), signifying a monumental leap in precision and effectiveness in treating various neurological conditions.
The non-surgical technology ensures a high success rate for controlling brain tumours and other brain conditions with minimal side effects and its radiosurgery boasts an impressive track record, with a controlled rate surpassing 95 per cent over 10 years, providing reassuring long-term relief.
The private hospital is identified as the Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) situated in the Gurugram district of Haryana.
This groundbreaking version of the Leksell Gamma Knife® heralds a new era in the non-surgical, high-precision treatment of brain tumours, greatly enhancing therapeutic options for both malignant and benign brain tumours and other abnormalities of the brain.
The Gamma Knife employs computer-guided precision to target brain tumours without actual cutting, making it an optimal choice for treating both malignant and benign tumours, including multiple brain metastases, meningiomas, acoustic tumours, and pituitary adenomas. Its precision is crucial for tumours in sensitive or hard-to-reach brain areas, sparing healthy brain tissues and allowing patients to return to daily activities almost immediately.
According to Dr Sandeep Vaishya, Director of Neurosurgery, Fortis Gurugram, "The launch of South Asia's first Gamma Knife Esprit at our facility marks a significant milestone in the field of neurosurgery. This advanced technology brings a level of precision to neurosurgical procedures that were previously unattainable, targeting brain tumours with pinpoint accuracy."
"The Gamma Knife Esprit minimizes the radiation exposure to healthy tissues which is crucial for reducing potential side effects. This capability allows us to enhance patient safety and comfort significantly, thus optimizing the recovery process. By drastically cutting down recovery times, we are not only improving clinical outcomes but also enhancing the overall patient experience. This is a step forward in our ongoing effort to push the boundaries of what's possible in medical treatment and patient care," he added.
Anil Vinayak, Group COO of Fortis Healthcare, elaborated on the broader vision of Fortis as a leader in comprehensive cancer care.
"Deploying the first Gamma Knife Esprit in South Asia is a testament to Fortis Healthcare's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies in neurosurgery and holistic cancer care. Our commitment extends beyond just offering advanced treatments; it encompasses providing comprehensive care that enhances the overall patient journey and outcomes. This initiative is another step in reinforcing our position at the forefront of medical innovation and patient-centric care across the region," Vinayak said.
Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India, who is the Chief Guest at the inauguration, said, " I am deeply honoured to witness the pioneering collaboration between Swedish companies like Elekta and India's leading healthcare chain, Fortis Healthcare. This landmark introduction of precision radiosurgery technology, the first of its kind in South Asia, underscores the transformative impact of our partnership and FMRI's dedication to advancing healthcare excellence."
"Swedish companies are renowned for their leadership in healthcare innovation, and through initiatives like this, we are collectively bridging gaps in advanced medical treatments, ensuring patients in the region have access to cutting-edge care. Our continued collaboration between Sweden and India, particularly with Fortis Healthcare, is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare. I eagerly anticipate the continued success of our partnerships and the delivery of sustainable healthcare solutions for all," he added.
Further, radiation therapy for multiple brain metastasis requires almost 30 sessions; in contrast, Gamma Knife radiosurgery consolidates the entire treatment into a single session with same-day discharge, making the treatment swift and efficient.
Additionally, Gamma Knife can treat multiple metastasis in a single session, irrespective of the metastatic lesions involved, a benefit not offered by other technologies. This method significantly minimises radiation exposure to healthy tissues, preserving motor, sensory, nerve and neurocognitive function, enabling rapid recovery and improving the health quality of life after treatment. Thus, Gamma Knife radiosurgery is considered the gold standard for brain radiosurgery worldwide.
The procedure can be performed using either frame-based or frameless methods for personalised care for patients with a comfortable treatment experience and is followed by stereotactic MRI to ensure precise treatment delivery.
Fortis Healthcare has introduced Gamma Knife technology, a time-tested, reliable method with extensive clinical validation and high confidence among clinicians and patients across India and worldwide.
This integrated and efficient system boasts a guaranteed accuracy of 0.3 mm, delivering doses to healthy brain tissue that are 2-4x lower than other technologies, with 2-21x lower extracranial doses.
This highest accuracy and precision in the Gamma knife reduces toxicities and side effects in the normal brain.