Neurosurgical Oncology
Our faculty expertise in neurosurgical oncology allows us to offer a comprehensive approach, incorporating the talents of specialists from various disciplines and state-of-the-art technology in the treatment of benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spine. Working with specialists in the areas of neurological surgery, neurology, radiation oncology, neuroradiology, neuropathology, neuroendocrinology, physiatry and psychiatry, every neuro-oncology case is discussed in a formal case management conference where a treatment decision is rendered.
Education
The Department of Neurological Surgery hosts multiple academic events related to the management and treatment of neuro-oncology disorders and disease. Through our affiliated hospitals and care sites, residents and fellows participate in the operative management of a wide range of neuro-oncology disorders, including benign and malignant tumors that affect the brain, skull, skull base, spine, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. In addition, residents and fellows benefit from exposure to modern radiation therapy techniques such as Gamma Knife, microneurosurgical techniques, image-guided resections, endoscopic resection of tumors such as transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, intra-operative brain mapping and fundamentals of spinal and cranio-cervical stabilization.
Research
Some of our current clinical trials and technological development work include:
- A randomized, double-blind, controlled Phase IIb study of the safety and efficacy of ICT-107 in newly diagnosed patients with glioblastoma multiforme following resection and chemoradiation
- An observational study using mathematical modeling to quantify and predict tumor growth and response to therapy in brain tumor patients
Our basic science activities include:
- Molecular profiling project of glioma diseases
- Proteomics in glioblastomas - histone nodification analysis and top down proteomics
- The epidemiology, process and outcomes of spine oncology clinical outcomes database for primary and metastatic tumors
Patient Care
Through collaboration with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, our faculty
Current treatment for brain and spinal cord tumors include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Gamma knife radiosurgery
- Chemotherapy
El Programa de Tumores de Cerebro y Columna En Español
Northwestern Medicine ha creado el Programa Hispánico de Tumores de Cerebro y Columna para atender las necesidades de los pacientes hispanos. Esta clínica es la primera en ofrecer acceso a líderes en el campo de la neurocirugía y neuro-oncología, y atención medica con un enfoque multidisciplinario, todo en español. Esta clínica brinda atención medica adaptada a la cultura hispana para servir a la comunidad local e internacional. Aprende más