What is the Best Treatment for Brain Cancer: Unraveling the Options
When you or a loved one is facing a brain cancer diagnosis, one of the first questions you may ask is, "What’s the best treatment?" It’s a natural question, and an important one. The answer depends on many factors, but the good news is that there are more options today than ever before.
At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, we know that no two brain tumors and no two patients are exactly alike. That’s why we take a personalized, team-based approach to every treatment plan. From conventional treatments like surgery and radiation to innovative therapies that are in clinical trials, let’s explore cutting-edge advancements in the field.
What is The Best Treatment For Brain Cancer?
In the quest to find the best treatment for brain cancer, several options exist that cater to different grades and types of brain tumors. Each treatment approach comes with its benefits and considerations, and the choice depends on factors like tumor type, location, size, and the patient's overall health. Let's explore these treatment options in more detail:
Brain Tumor Treatment Options
Let's explore these treatment options in more detail.
Surgery
Brain cancer surgery remains a primary treatment method for accessible tumors. Different surgical techniques may be employed, depending on the tumor's location, size, and type. Glioblastomas, meningiomas, and pituitary tumors may necessitate different surgical approaches. Minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopic surgery, have also emerged as viable options, minimizing trauma and promoting faster recovery.
Surgery is often the first treatment step. It may be used to:
- Remove as much of the tumor as possible
- Relieve pressure in the brain
- Confirm the diagnosis with a biopsy
At Duke, we use minimally invasive and advanced image-guided surgical techniques to protect healthy brain tissue and support a faster recovery.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy employs high-energy beams to target and destroy cancerous cells. External beam radiation and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are common approaches, precisely delivering radiation to the tumor while sparing healthy surrounding tissues. Brachytherapy, on the other hand, involves implanting radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor site.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to impede the growth and division of cancer cells. Systemic chemotherapy circulates throughout the body, while targeted chemotherapy specifically targets cancer cells. The choice of chemotherapy depends on the tumor's responsiveness to certain drugs and the overall health of the patient.
We tailor chemotherapy plans based on your tumor’s behavior and genetic profile to reduce side effects and improve outcomes.
Targeted Drug Therapy
Targeted drugs selectively target cancer cells, reducing damage to normal cells and minimizing side effects. These drugs work by:
- Interrupting tumor cell signals
- Preventing new blood vessels from forming
- Activating the immune system to fight cancer
Targeted therapies are often used alongside other treatments for better results.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new treatments or treatment combinations in patients with brain cancer. Brain tumor clinical trials may explore novel targeted therapies, immunotherapies, radiation techniques, or surgical procedures.
We proudly have FDA-approved clinical trials that are only available at our cancer center. No other hospital or center is allowed to provide these treatments to patients.
Follow-up Care and Rehabilitation
After brain cancer treatment, regular follow-up care is essential to monitor the patient's condition, manage side effects, and detect any signs of recurrence or complications. Follow-up visits typically involve physical examinations, rehabilitation, imaging tests (MRI or CT scans), and neurological assessments.
Our goal is to help you recover fully and maintain the best quality of life possible.
Which Tumor Treatment is Right For Me?
At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, we understand that every brain cancer diagnosis is unique, and each patient's journey requires personalized and specialized care. Each person’s care plan is developed by our expert team, which includes neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, researchers, and nurses.
When facing a brain tumor diagnosis, it's natural to have many questions and uncertainties about the best course of action. We want to assure you that you are not alone in this journey, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Personalized Approach to Treatment
One of the core principles at our center is the understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to brain cancer treatments. Each patient's case is different, and our approach to treatment is always tailored to individual needs.
Our multidisciplinary team of specialists works collaboratively to carefully analyze each patient's specific medical history, tumor characteristics, and overall health to design a customized treatment plan.
Comprehensive Brain Tumor Treatment Options
As a world-renowned brain tumor center, we offer a wide range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Our team of expert neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists work together to ensure that patients receive the most comprehensive and advanced treatment options available.
Pioneering Research and Clinical Trials
Our commitment to advancing brain tumor research is unwavering. Through ongoing clinical trials and cutting-edge research, we continue to explore new treatments and therapies, giving our patients access to the latest innovations in brain cancer care.
Participating in clinical trials can offer hope for patients seeking alternative treatments and contribute to the advancement of brain tumor knowledge.
The Best Brain Tumor Treatment Center Near You
Facing a brain tumor diagnosis can be overwhelming, but we believe in empowering our patients and their families with knowledge and support. Our team takes the time to ensure that patients and their loved ones are well-informed partners in the decision-making process.
At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to every patient on their journey to overcoming brain cancer. Book your appointment today at our clinic in Durham, NC, and let us be your partner in navigating the path to healing and hope.
👉 Explore our Adult Neuro-Oncology Program
Related Readings:
- Can Brain Tumors Be Treated Without Surgery?
- Do Brain Tumors Show Up In Blood Work?
- What is the Best Treatment for Brain Cancer: Unraveling the Options
FAQs About Brain Tumor Treatment
How is the best treatment for my brain tumor determined?
Our treatment is tailored to the specific characteristics of your tumor, including its type, location, and genetic profile, as well as your overall health and personal preferences.
Is brain tumor surgery always required?
Not always. Some tumors are better managed with radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapies.
Can I participate in a clinical trial?
Possibly. If a trial is a good match for your diagnosis, we will provide details and guidance.
What happens after treatment ends?
You’ll continue to receive follow-up care, imaging, rehab, and support services to help you stay well.