An equipment upgrade at the Health Sciences Centre (HSC) is set to speed up minimally invasive surgery for patients with brain tumours and other neurological conditions. During a Monday joint news conference between the Health Sciences Centre Foundation and the province, it was explained that the hospital has acquired a new Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery equipment unit. The high-precision device uses targeted gamma radiation on tumours, vascular malformations, and other brain disorders, allowing patients to undergo brain surgery with almost no incision or the need for open surgery. Officials said the upgraded Elekta Esprit system will allow HSC to treat more patients more effectively. “With the new Esprit, patients often come in for the treatment before breakfast and return home for lunch, a dramatic change,” said Dr. Anthony Kaufmann, a neurosurgeon at HSC Winnipeg. “The treatments are shorter, the planning is more efficient, and the whole experience is less demanding.” The integrated CT imaging also eliminates the need for same-day MRIs. “By performing scans right here, we can free up diagnostic imaging services in the hospital so that patients waiting for CT scans and MRIs for other reasons can get their studies done sooner,” said Kaufmann. Additionally, the machine provides more flexibility to treat patients with larger and more complex tumours. The foundation said patients will also have the option to use a custom-fitted mask to stabilize their head’s position during the radiation delivery. “This upgrade to Gamma Knife Esprit is really quite monumental. It’s a marvel of engineering and computing technology,” said Kauffman. Around 5,000 patients have undergone the treatment since the first Gamma Knife was introduced at HSC in 2003, and it’s become an integral part of neurological care. “Now, Gamma Knife surgery comprises 25 per cent of all brain surgery in the province,” noted Kauffman. Officials expect to treat about 250 patients a year with the new system. The Gamma Knife was funded through a partnership between the HSC Foundation and the province. -With files from CTV’s Carie Wilson
