Types of Cancer We Treat

Brain, Spinal Cord and Nervous System Cancers

Advanced non-invasive treatments for neurological cancers

Neuro-oncology Brain and Spine Cancers Treatment Care Team Neurosurgeons

Neuro-oncology

At the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute’s Neuro-oncology Multidisciplinary Center, we specialize in treating cancers of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. Our team of expert specialists - including neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, and radiation oncologists - work together to provide personalized treatment for tumors of the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding nerves.

Brain and Spine Cancers

These cancers can affect how the body moves, feels, and functions. Some brain and spinal cord tumors are cancerous (malignant), while others are benign but still may require treatment due to their impact on the brain or spine.

Primary malignant brain tumors begin in the brain and grow quickly, while secondary tumors are when cancers have spread from another part of the body and can harm the brain.

Symptoms depend on the tumor’s size and location but may include headaches or pressure in the head, seizures, changes in vision, weakness, numbness or tingling in arms or legs, trouble walking or with balance, and neck or back pain.

To schedule an appointment, call 302-733-HOPE (4673)

Cutting-Edge Treatment

Our patients benefit from the very latest internal radiation therapy that targets tumor sites with pinpoint precision while minimizing exposure to healthy surrounding tissues. Examples include stereotactic radiosurgery and fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy, which deliver high-dose radiation directly to benign or malignant brain tumors or blood vessel malformations. These procedures are noninvasive and performed on an outpatient basis.

New procedures under investigation are also available to qualified patients. One example is the use of liquid radioactive iodine delivered through a balloon catheter to help stop tumor regrowth after surgery. These and other new advances, carried out by a team of specially trained neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists, are offered to patients who consent to participate in our strictly regulated clinical research program.

A Multidisciplinary Team of Brain Care Specialists

Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are used, often in combination, to treat neurological cancers. New procedures under investigation are also available to qualified patients. When you visit the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, you will meet with the following team of these specialist all together in one visit:

Your neurosurgeon can order diagnostic tests, perform a biopsy to see if your tumor is malignant or operate to remove cancer if necessary.
Your medical oncologist can administer chemotherapy or immunotherapy that kills cancer cells.
Your neuro-oncologist can pinpoint places where your cancer is growing and use precisely focused X-rays to reduce or destroy it.

Together, these specialists, in consultation with your primary care doctor and with the support of your care-management team, will work with you to create the most appropriate and effective plan of treatment for your cancer.

At ChristianaCare, we are committed to providing you with the expertise, treatment options and care you need on your journey back to health. We are here for you.