The multidisciplinary approach to brain tumor treatment is best exemplified by the weekly meeting of the Brain Tumor Board, where a broad range of specialist physicians review patients’ cases.
Sharing their expertise and experience, physicians specializing in neuro-oncology, neurosurgery, radiation oncology, behavioral oncology, neuropathology, neuroradiology and neuropsychology collaborate on care plans for each case.
The Brain Tumor Board also draws on the expertise of a Brain Tumor Center nurse navigator, physical and speech therapists, music therapists, social workers, financial counselors and clinical research to ensure patients and families get the support they need.
New diagnoses of brain tumors are presented to the board each week, and follow-up cases are presented at steps along the patient’s journey.
The physicians will review pathology slides, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan results, medical history, medical examination notes and other records of your case. The board reviews new cases to reach a precise diagnosis based on multiple viewpoints.
When the discussion turns to therapy, the pros and cons of various options are discussed and weighed before the team determines a customized, coordinated treatment plan for your case.
While these specialists review your case, you may have separate appointments with the physicians, depending on the nature of your brain tumor. The Brain Tumor Center allows scheduling multiple appointments for the same day at the same location to minimize travel.
