Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2026
Full-Circle Cauterization of Limbal Vascular Plexus for Surgically Induced Glaucoma in Rodents
Published on: February 15, 2022
Initial experience with gamma knife surgery for endocrine ophthalmopathy
Julio C Antico1, Luis Crovetto, Eduardo Tenca
1Department of Stereotactic, Functional, and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, FLENI Neurology Institute, Buenos Aires, Argentina. jantico@fleni.org.ar
Object:
The aim of this study was to evaluate both the effectiveness and safety of the treatment of endocrine ophthalmopathy with gamma knife surgery (GKS).
Methods:
Five patients were included in a prospective study designed to assess the results of GKS of endocrine ophthalmopathy secondary to Graves disease. All the patients completed a 2-year follow-up period. During this period, the patients were evaluated both clinically and by means of additional methods, including computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies. The minimum dose delivered to the 50% isodose line was 6.5 Gy in all the patients. In all cases, a clinical improvement was observed. The best effect was seen in symptom regression related to soft-tissue involvement. No treatment-related side effects were detected.
Conclusions:
In light of the results obtained the authors consider that GKS may be a safe and effective way to treat endocrine ophthalmopathy.
Insights
Gamma Knife Surgery (GKS) shows promise for treating endocrine ophthalmopathy, a condition often linked to Graves disease. This study found GKS to be a safe and effective treatment with no observed side effects.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Endocrine ophthalmopathy, often associated with Graves disease, can cause significant ocular morbidity.
- Gamma Knife Surgery (GKS) is a stereotactic radiosurgery technique with potential applications in various medical conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Gamma Knife Surgery (GKS) for treating endocrine ophthalmopathy.
- To assess clinical outcomes and symptom regression in patients undergoing GKS for this condition.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving five patients with endocrine ophthalmopathy secondary to Graves disease.
- All patients completed a 2-year follow-up, with clinical evaluations and imaging (CT, MRI).
- A minimum dose of 6.5 Gy to the 50% isodose line was administered.
Main Results:
- Clinical improvement was observed in all five patients.
- The most significant improvement was noted in soft-tissue involvement symptoms.
- No treatment-related side effects were detected during the follow-up period.
Conclusions:
- Gamma Knife Surgery (GKS) appears to be a safe and effective treatment option for endocrine ophthalmopathy.
- GKS demonstrates potential for managing symptoms, particularly those related to soft-tissue changes.
