Brain Cancer
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, we understand
that you may be feeling uncertain and scared. That’s why Lynn Cancer
Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital brings together a team of brain
tumor experts to support you through every step of diagnosis, treatment
and survivorship.
When it comes to brain cancer treatment, we believe it’s crucial
to have a team approach from the very beginning. Our neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists
and radiation oncologists collaborate on every aspect of your diagnosis
and treatment. We also work closely with your family on treatment decisions,
so you’re fully supported throughout your cancer journey.
What types of brain tumors are treated at Lynn Cancer Institute?
Our team treats all types of brain cancer, including primary brain cancers
(cancer that starts in the brain) such as glioblastomas and meningiomas.
Brain cancers are also sometimes called central nervous system (CNS) tumors.
We also treat metastatic brain cancer, or cancer that spreads to the brain
from another part of the body.
In addition to treating brain cancer, our team includes
experts from Marcus Neuroscience Institute [Link to: https://www.brrh.com/Services/Marcus-Neuroscience-Institute/Brain-Spine-and-Skull-Base-Tumors.aspx] to treat benign brain tumors and other brain conditions, including:
- Acoustic neuromas
- Schwannomas
- Pituitary adenomas
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
- Trigeminal neuralgia
How do Lynn Cancer Institute experts diagnose brain tumors?
Our team starts every treatment plan with a complete review of your records,
including previous tests or imaging. This review includes neuro-radiologists
who specialize in reading brain imaging tests. The review may also include
neuro-pathologists who specialize in brain tumor biopsies.
Once we review your records, we may have you undergo more tests and imaging.
Lynn Cancer Institute has access to the latest 3-Tesla MRI technology,
which provides high-resolution images of the brain. These advanced MRIs
help pinpoint the tumor location, allowing us to better target the tumor
with radiation therapy or surgery.
We may also send a tumor biopsy for molecular testing. Molecular tests
can help us narrow down the type of cancer you may have, which allows
us to find a more precise and effective treatment.
How does Lynn Cancer Institute treat brain cancer?
At Lynn Cancer Institute, we customize each treatment plan to the patient.
Our team will consider your age, overall health, symptoms and quality
of life before deciding which approach is right for you. In some cases,
that may mean waiting to start treatment or choosing a shorter course
of treatment.
Every patient starts the treatment journey at our multimodality clinic.
During this visit, you will meet with our entire team of experts to discuss
your diagnosis and potential treatment plan. This process allows you to
get several expert opinions all in one visit.
This team of experts will also collaborate on your treatment plan. By combining
this expertise, we can help provide a more personalized and effective
approach to treating your cancer.
When you start treatment, you’ll have access to all of the latest
therapy options, including state-of-the-art radiation and radiosurgery
treatments.
Options for brain cancer management and treatment may include:
- Surveillance (no immediate treatment, or “watchful waiting”)
- Chemotherapy, including oral or IV chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
- Tumor treating fields (TTF)
- Cyberknife™ radiosurgery
- Proton therapy
- Surgery
If proton therapy may be a good option for you, we’ll work closely
with the team at Miami Cancer Institute at Baptist Health South Florida
to coordinate treatment.
Support services are also an essential part of your treatment plan. These
services can include:
- Physical therapy and occupational therapy
- Nutrition counseling
- Social work support and counseling
- Exercise and wellness classes, including yoga and Tai Chi
Our approach
When you come to Lynn Cancer Institute for brain cancer treatment, you
can expect:
- A team of experts by your side through every step of your cancer journey.
- The latest technology and treatment options, including state-of-the-art
radiation therapy.
- A caring and comprehensive team that listens carefully to your questions,
concerns and needs.
What is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)?
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivers precise doses of
radiation to a specific area of the body or brain, reducing damage to
healthy tissue around the tumor. The radiation dose also adjusts based
on the shape of the tumor. At Lynn Cancer Institute, we carefully plan
every radiation therapy treatment using detailed imaging to make sure
the treatment is as accurate and effective as possible.
Will I have to worry about neurological side effects of treatment?
Brain cancer treatment can cause some neurological changes and fatigue.
However, there are many ways to manage these side effects. Our team will
work closely with you before, during and after treatment to help you find
ways to cope with any changes.
Meet the team
Our team includes neuro-oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists,
neuroradiologists and neuropathologists who specialize in treating brain
cancer. We also work closely with social workers, nutritionists, research
coordinators, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses and
other support staff.
Brain cancer clinical trials
Lynn Cancer Institute has a research team dedicated to finding new treatments
for central nervous system (CNS) tumors, including brain tumors. We are
actively participating in private clinical trials and large group trials
through the Alliance National Clinical Trials Network and NRG Oncology.
In particular, we have recently pursued new treatment options using tumor
treating fields (TTF) for glioblastoma.
To learn more, talk to your doctor or
view our list of active trials.