The second step in Gamma Knife treatment is obtaining an MRI scan.  Even if the patient has had a recent MRI scan, a new one is required with the head frame in place.  The MRI taken while the patient is wearing the head frame allows the computer program to localize the tumor or other target.  Patients being treated for an AVM will also need an angiogram.  Patients who have a pacemaker or some other condition that limits them from having an MRI, can be treated using a CAT scan.

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