Gamma Knife in Serbia

By Maja Samardzic-Lukic

I am from a beautiful, small European country - Serbia. I am a physician by profession, specializing in pediatric nephrology. Dedicated to my daily work and always caught up in a busy schedule, I could never have imagined that everything would come to a sudden halt due to my own illness.

In February 2024, I experienced unusual dizziness for the first time. Over time, the dizziness episodes recurred, always with the same sensation—like I was "falling" to my left side. By May, I realized it was time to seek medical evaluation, so I consulted an ENT specialist. An MRI of my brain revealed that I had an acoustic neuroma measuring 20 x 20 mm.

At that time, my only symptom was dizziness, and my hearing was completely intact. It was determined that Gamma Knife treatment would be the best approach, and I underwent the procedure in June 2025—symbolically, on the international awareness day for this condition.

Unfortunately, acoustic neuromas are relatively rare in my country, and I often felt that the information I received from doctors was incomplete, especially regarding potential symptoms following Gamma Knife treatment. While researching more about acoustic neuromas, I came across the ANA website. I cannot express how much it helped me and provided a platform for both professional medical insights and, just as importantly, the personal stories of fellow AN warriors.

Six weeks after Gamma Knife treatment, I experienced an expected worsening of my symptoms, including severe dizziness, headaches, and gait disturbances. An MRI confirmed swelling of the tumor and the initial stages of necrosis. I was treated with corticosteroids and medication to manage dizziness. Three months post-treatment, my ability to walk improved, and the dizziness became less intense. However, around this time, I developed trigeminal and facial neuralgia, as well as hearing loss and tinnitus.

Despite these challenges, I have embraced a positive mindset. With gait rehabilitation, acupuncture, and chronic pain management therapy, I am feeling better. I enjoy spending time with my family, walking, exercising, and continuing my scientific work. Most importantly, my smile has returned. Although my hearing in my left ear is diminished, I can still enjoy beautiful music.

I am deeply grateful to my neurosurgeon, ENT specialist, neurologist, and acupuncturist—and especially to everyone at the ANA. In moments of despair, the information I found through the website provided reassurance, comfort, and support.  Thank you sincerely for doing an incredible job; it is invaluable to AN warriors and their families.