Brain & Spine Cancer
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Overview
Brain and spine tumors are abnormal growths found in the brain, spinal cord, and/or surrounding tissues. Tumors are either benign or malignant (cancerous). Both types of tumors can grow near important structures and affect the way your brain and nerves function, which is why treatment is so important.
If you have a suspected brain or spinal tumor, let us help you.
Wilmot Cancer InstituteUR Medicine's Treatments for Brain & Spine Cancer
The Brain and Spinal Tumor Program within Wilmot Cancer Institute is a multidisciplinary clinic where neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, and radiation oncology experts provide specialized and individualized care. Treatment ranges from radiation and chemotherapy to neurosurgery procedures and other targeted approaches.
The Brain and Spine Metastasis Program at Wilmot Cancer Institute focuses on the care of patients with metastatic cancer in the central nervous system and spine.
Depending on the type of tumor you have, chemotherapy may be part of your treatment plan.
Chemotherapy is any type of drug that works to kill tumor cells or prevent tumors from growing.
The chemotherapy that we use most commonly in brain tumors is called temozolomide (Temodar®). It works by killing the rapidly growing cells in the tumor and slowing tumor growth. It comes as a capsule and can be taken at home.
Other chemotherapy regimens used for brain tumors include:
- Carmustine (BCNU)
- Lomustine (CCNU)
- A combination of three drugs called PCV (procarbazine, CCNU and vincristine)
Patient Stories
Coming to UR Medicine Saved Petro's Life
What Sets Us Apart?
UR Medicine's Wilmot Cancer Institute provides world-class cancer treatment and care and conducts pivotal research. The goal is to prevent and conquer cancer through innovation in science, patient care, education, and community outreach.
The Brain and Spine Metastasis Program at Wilmot Cancer Institute is centered on neuro-oncology, CNS radiation oncology, and neurosurgical oncology. It also integrates focused specialists from neuro-pathology, neuro-radiology, neuro-anesthesiology, neuro-palliative care, neuro-surgical ICU, and neuro-specific nursing care.
With the introduction of new medical therapeutics, radiation technology, state-of-the-art neurosurgical techniques, and access to an expanding number of national clinical trials, more focused treatments dedicated to this disease process have emerged as the new standard of care.