The best tumor treatment will depend on what type of tumor you have and where it’s located. Your care team will work with you to create a plan that is best for your unique health.
Evaluating your tumor
Typically we need to get images of your tumor to know how to best treat it. At UW Health, we offer many advanced brain imaging options, including the latest MRI and PET scanning techniques.
Noninvasive treatments
Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat symptoms of your tumor. Sometimes steroids are prescribed to reduce swelling. This lets your doctor see the extent of your tumor.
Chemotherapy
After surgery, we use chemotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Surgical treatments
Some tumors must be removed with surgery. We always use the least invasive option. This helps you have less pain and a quicker recovery.
Radiation treatments
Radiation destroys tumor cells. There are different radiation treatments available. They include:
Image-guided radiation therapy: Uses imaging systems to guide radiation to a tumor target
Pulsed reduced-dose rate radiation therapy: Slowly delivers radiation. This reduces damage to normal brain tissue.
Stereostatic radiosurgery: Pinpoints a tumor and protects nearby healthy tissues.
Other treatment options
Depending on your type of tumor, you may need other treatments. Options include:
Optune device: This treatment uses electric fields to stop cancer cells from growing.