Hello All -
I must let you know that my Gamma Knife experience yesterday was even easier that I imagined, even with all the backup knowledge from those who participate in this site. Part of this was due to the excellent and so kind staff, as well as the peaceful area and setup.
This photo shows the metal frame (NOT a "halo" at all) in which I felt more like the Woman in the Iron Mask. You can plainly see where the "attachements" are right above both eyes. I did not ask how much the frame weighed! There were two other places that had to hold at the back of my head. After the MRI I was able to try to eat and drink, but that piece over my chin had to be navigated around. It sticks out more than you can well see.
I had a young Asian woman neurosurgeon place the frame (with nurses help) who was a whiz with the needle and I barely felt a slight sting in the front and nothing in the back. She really numbed me up and I still don't have full feeling around the back of my head. She would come take out her screwdrivers and check adjustments to see that I was comfortable since I had to go second (for the reason that the other guy was a repeat for a brain primary and his treatment plan was fast to get into the computer - I agreed, why should he wait for me).
Soon after check-in I was given my Atavan and usually 1/2 is enough for me! Once they knew I had to wait, and I mentioned the pressure at the back of my head, they gave me an Oxycodone. Due to a little odd positioning to get to the bigger met, there was more pressure on the right back area. Neuro came in and shot it again, why still numb!
I was able to take a 45 min nap and wake just before final treatment preparations. (Hubby was happy and just read his book!)
Then I was given by IV line 10mg of Dexamethasone and some Kytril in case of nausea. My personal nurse took charge of the CD's I brought and I gave her the order in which I wanted them played. Then I went to lie on the table and get my head frame fitted into a concave "helmet" that was already in place.
They told me that the treatment would be starting, and that is the only way I knew as it is totally soundless, except for the tiny automatic adjustments occasionally made inside the helmet when they change angles. Basically I drifted and dreamed to my music. First met took about 50 min and the second (for which they had to change the "helmet" ) took about 20 minutes.
As soon as I was back in my room the frame came off. Preparations were underway for a refill on the Dex and wound care, which was minimal. The rad onc and physicist came in with pictures of the targets ringed in colors to show me what they did. They answered our questions and felt very confident about my prospects with this treatment.
I took 1/2 Oxycodone last night and slept basically through. My hubby had to check me to ease his mind! May just take a Tylenol this night in case the right back area wakes up and bothers me.
So far today not the slightest headache or other aftereffect. I had some work to do this morning on an event coming up, laundry, etc. Then I went down to the U of W to see Lolly getting her first vaccine! So, I call this a VERY good day.
Thanks again to all for your support in yet another juncture in my struggle against Stage IV BC.
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