Radiation oncology specialists use sophisticated technologies and machinery to target and shrink tumors and cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used as a primary treatment method for malignant and benign brain tumors, and – in the case of cancer – sometimes in conjunction with chemotherapy and surgical treatments.
The team of radiation oncologists at the Brain Tumor Center specialize in stereotactic radiosurgery treatment options, including specialized use of the Leksell Gamma Knife® Perfexion™ for those with meningiomas and vestibular schwannomas; arteriovenous malformations; medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia; and metastases.
Neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists affiliated with UTHealth have performed more than 5,000 Gamma Knife procedures, working closely with referring physicians throughout the radiosurgical treatment process. A neurosurgeon and a radiation oncologist assess each candidate to determine whether radiosurgical treatment is the best option. In the event that it is, nurse navigators work directly with patients on scheduling and pretreatment education, and provide support and care on the day of treatment. The Center also sponsors a brain tumor support group that meets the second Wednesday of every month.
