Neuro-Oncology
at Pi Health Cancer Hospital
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Welcome to the Neuro-Oncology Department at Pi Health Cancer Hospital, where we lead the way in treating brain tumors, spinal tumors, and neurofibromatosis. Our team excels in delivering exceptional care for patients dealing with neurological complications from cancer or its treatments. Known for their expertise and compassion, our doctors, physician assistants, and nurses are dedicated to providing outstanding care.
What is Neuro-Oncology?
Neuro-oncology focuses on diagnosing and treating tumors of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Our specialized physicians are equipped to manage complex neuro-oncological conditions with precision and care.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing neuro-oncological conditions involves a comprehensive approach to accurately identifying brain tumors, spinal tumors, and neurofibromatosis. The process typically includes:
- Clinical Evaluation: Initial assessment through detailed medical history and neurological examination to identify symptoms such as headaches, seizures, motor deficits, and cognitive changes.
- Imaging Studies: Advanced imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and PET scans are used to visualize tumors and assess their size, location, and impact on surrounding structures.
- Biopsy: Surgical or needle biopsy to confirm the type and grade of the tumor, determining whether it is benign or malignant.
- Molecular and Genetic Testing: Analyzing tumor tissue for specific genetic mutations and molecular markers to guide targeted therapies.
- Lumbar Puncture: Collecting and analyzing cerebrospinal fluid in cases involving spinal tumors or suspected spread of cancer.
- Electrophysiological Studies: Tests like EEG and EMG are used to evaluate the electrical activity of the brain and muscles.
- Neuropsychological Testing: Assessing cognitive function, memory, and other mental abilities to determine the extent of neurological impairment and guide treatment planning.
By integrating these diagnostic tools, we ensure a precise and comprehensive diagnosis, enabling the development of tailored treatment plans for each patient.
Treatment Procedures in Neuro-Oncology
Our neuro-oncology treatments aim to manage and eradicate tumors while minimizing neurological damage. Available treatments include:
- Surgery: A medical procedure that involves the physical removal of tumors or cancerous tissues from the body.
- Craniotomy: Removal of brain tumors through surgical opening of the skull.
- Spinal Surgery: Procedures to remove spinal tumors.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Techniques like endoscopic surgery to reduce recovery time and complications.
- Radiation Therapy: A cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth.
- External Beam Radiation: Targeted radiation to destroy tumor cells.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): Precise delivery of high-dose radiation to brain tumors.
- Proton Therapy: Uses protons for targeted radiation, sparing healthy tissue.
- Chemotherapy: A treatment method that uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body.
- Systemic Chemotherapy: Drugs circulating through the bloodstream to kill cancer cells.
- Intrathecal Chemotherapy: Direct injection of chemotherapy into the cerebrospinal fluid.
- Targeted Therapy: A cancer treatment that uses drugs designed to specifically target and inhibit cancer cell growth and spread by interfering with molecular targets associated with cancer.
- Targeted Drug Therapy: Drugs targeting specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.
- Molecularly Targeted Drugs: Medications targeting genetic abnormalities within cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that boosts or modifies the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively.
- Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
- CAR T-Cell Therapy: Genetically modified T cells to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields): A cancer treatment that uses low-intensity, alternating electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
- Electric Field Therapy: Low-intensity, alternating electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
- Electric Field Therapy: Low-intensity, alternating electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
- Rehabilitation: Therapeutic services aimed at helping cancer patients regain physical function, strength, and mobility during and after treatment.
- Physical Therapy: To improve mobility and strength.
- Occupational Therapy: To assist with daily activities and improve quality of life.
- Speech Therapy: To address speech and swallowing difficulties.
- Supportive Care: Care provided to alleviate symptoms, manage pain, and improve the overall quality of life for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
- Pain Management: Medications and techniques to control pain.
- Palliative Care: Focused on providing relief from symptoms and improving quality of life.
- Clinical Trials: Research studies that test new treatments or drugs in a controlled setting to determine their safety and effectiveness in cancer patients.
- Experimental Treatments: Access to cutting-edge therapies through clinical research studies.
These treatments are often used in combination, tailored to the specific type and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. The goal is to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects and preserving neurological function.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Care: Specialized physicians in brain and spinal tumors.
- Comprehensive Treatment: Full spectrum of care from diagnosis to rehabilitation.
- Cutting-Edge Treatments: Latest innovations and clinical trials.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Team-based, personalized care plans.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Patient-Centered Care: Compassionate support for patients and families.
- Holistic Support Services: Rehabilitation, pain management, and psychological support.
- Positive Patient Outcomes: High success rates and patient satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Question
Neuro-oncology is a specialized branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating tumors that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system.
Neuro-oncologists at Pi Health Cancer Hospital treat a variety of tumors, including gliomas (such as glioblastoma and astrocytoma), meningiomas, vestibular schwannomas, CNS lymphoma, metastatic brain and spine tumors, and primary spinal cord tumors.
Symptoms may include persistent headaches, seizures, changes in vision or hearing, balance problems, cognitive changes, and personality alterations. These symptoms require evaluation by our specialized team.
Diagnosis involves thorough neurological examinations, advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans, precise biopsies, molecular and genetic testing, and sometimes lumbar punctures to accurately identify the type and extent of the tumor.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care such as rehabilitation and pain management. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific condition and needs.
We take a collaborative approach involving neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, neuropathologists, and neuroradiologists who work together to develop personalized treatment plans and ensure comprehensive care.
Yes, our hospital offers access to clinical trials that investigate innovative treatments and therapies for neuro-oncology patients. Participation in clinical trials provides opportunities for advanced treatment options and contributes to medical research.
Our goal is to effectively manage tumors, improve outcomes, preserve neurological function, and enhance the quality of life for our patients throughout their treatment journey.
We prioritize comprehensive care, including pain management, rehabilitation services, psychological support, and patient education, to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of our patients’ well-being.