Brain tumors are an abnormal growth of tissue within the skull. They can result in many different symptoms including headache, weakness, or seizures to name a few. Symptoms depend on size and location of the tumor within the brain. Tumors can grow at a very fast rate or a very slow rate. Some common brain tumors are Meningioma, Pituitary adenoma, Astrocytoma, Glioblastoma and metastatic brain tumors (tumors arising from cell tissue outside of the brain). Brain tumors are treated in a variety of ways including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of all of these modalities. Depending on location, size and type of tumor, a specialized, multidisciplinary approach is used for optimal care and treatment.
If surgery is indicated we typically use functional mapping and image navigation techniques for optimal and safe removal.

In certain instances brain tumors can be treated with radiation alone which is done on an outpatient basis. Stereotactic Radiosurgery or Gamma knife Radiosurgery are common platforms and are highly specific forms of radiation treatment for brain tumors I use when appropriate. I work with a dedicated radiation oncology treatment team to treat patients in this manner. In some instances certain brain tumors do not require treatment at all. They are followed over time with imaging and treated if changes occur.