Comprehensive Treatment Options for Brain Tumors
The Proton Center is among the most advanced cancer treatment facilities in Illinois offering proton therapy radiation as an alternative to standard radiation and X-ray therapy. When treating tumors in the brain, a combination of treatments is often used.
As one part of the innovative Northwestern Medicine cancer program, the Proton Center is dedicated to helping you understand your condition and treatment options.
Cancer Treatment Terms
Proton Therapy
A non-invasive treatment that uses proton radiation to kill cancer cells by preventing them from dividing and growing.
Proton therapy delivers less radiation to the non-target brain (defined as the normal brain minus the tumor area) than X-ray radiation. This decrease in dose to normal brain tissues may retain better overall brain function and reduce the likelihood of secondary tumors in the future.3-4
Standard X-ray Radiation
A commonly used radiation treatment to kill cancer cells by preventing them from dividing and growing. Options may include intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), Gamma Knife® and CyberKnife®.
However, tissues in the brain are very sensitive. Radiating healthy brain tissue can result in loss of memory, cognitive skills and mobility.
Craniotomy
A surgery to the brain requiring the removal of a part of the skull.
After the surgeon has removed the tumor and affected cells, the patient’s own bone is used to cover the opening in the skull. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, risks may include infection, bleeding and nerve damage.
Chemotherapy
The use of drugs to kill or alter the cancer cells in the brain, often used in combination with other therapies.
Chemotherapy drugs can have improved effectiveness in treating brain tumors when used in combination with other treatments.
Request more information or call 877.887.5807 to learn if you can benefit from proton therapy.