Gamma Knife ResearchExtensive research efforts are underway as part of our Gamma Knife SRS program. The focus of the research is to:  Identify ways to more precisely treat targets in the brain that are close to critical brain structures (e.g. optic nerve/chiasm, brain stem and pituitary gland). - Identify drugs that will sensitize cancerous brain tumor cells to the effects of radiation produced by the Gamma Knife and therefore improve the probability of curing the most malignant brain tumors.
- Collaborate with imaging scientists − Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Spectroscopy, and Functional MRI – and Medical Center researchers to understand the mechanisms of radiation-induced brain injury; to better treat patients who develop brain injury from radiation therapy; and to develop drugs which will prevent such injury.
Our goal is to be one of the best brain tumor treatment and research programs in the country and the best in North Carolina. The Gamma Knife is an important component of that program. |