PARAMUS, N.J. — The Valley Hospital has installed a new generation of Gamma Knife technology that doctors say allows them to treat brain tumors and other neurological conditions with sub-millimeter precision.

Valley is the first health system in New Jersey to acquire the Elekta Esprit system, according to Elekta, the technology's manufacturer.

The system is now in use at Valley's Gamma Knife Center, replacing the hospital's previous Elekta Icon system.

Gamma Knife radiosurgery uses hundreds of focused radiation beams to target tumors and other abnormalities in the brain while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Unlike traditional brain surgery, the treatment does not require an incision.

Valley has used Gamma Knife technology since 2011 to treat both benign and malignant conditions, including primary and metastatic brain tumors, as well as conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia.

The new system can also be used to treat acoustic neuromas, meningiomas, vestibular schwannomas, arteriovenous malformations, gliomas, pituitary tumors and other tumors involving the brain and skull base.

“With Elekta Esprit, we can treat complex brain conditions with sub-millimeter precision,” said Dr. Chad DeYoung, radiation oncologist and co-medical director of The Valley Gamma Knife Center. “For many patients, this means effective treatment with fewer risks, shorter recovery times, and the ability to return to daily life sooner than with traditional surgery or conventional radiotherapy.”

Dr. Rupa Juthani, a neurosurgeon and the center's other co-medical director, said the technology provides greater control when treating lesions near areas of the brain responsible for movement, speech or vision.

The Esprit also includes advanced imaging that helps doctors visualize treatment targets and a more efficient treatment process, according to Elekta.

Gamma Knife treatment is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Patients generally do not need general anesthesia and can usually return home the same day.

Valley said the new system is designed to improve treatment efficiency while also making procedures more comfortable for patients.

For more information, call 201-634-5610 or visit ValleyGammaKnife.com.