Neuro-Oncology

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer of the brain or nervous system, you need the best possible care. That's what you'll find at Radiant Oncology in Tucson, AZ. Our experienced physicians use the most powerful, advanced technologies available to combat tumors in both adults and children. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible treatment and support so that you can focus on what's most important - getting well.

Neuro-oncology is the multidisciplinary specialty focused on diagnosing and treating patients with primary brain tumors, secondary brain metastases, and cancer that has spread to the nervous system from elsewhere in the body. Our neuro-oncologist works in conjunction with our team of board-certified specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, neurosurgery, and neurology to provide the most comprehensive care possible.

Tumors affecting the nervous system can arise from the brain or spinal cord, or they can develop elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain or spinal cord. Each type of tumor requires a different approach to treatment.

Radiant Oncology is home to the only neuro-oncology program in Southern Arizona. Our team of experts offers comprehensive, leading-edge care for patients with brain and spinal tumors, with a full range of services from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.

Neurosurgery: Initial treatment for most brain tumors will be surgery. The type of surgery performed will depend on the type and location of the tumor. In some cases a craniotomy may be performed - a procedure in which a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain. Surgery may also be used to biopsy the tumor or to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Radiation Oncology: Combined with our neuro-oncologist and radiation oncologist team, we offer the most comprehensive radiation therapy program in Southern Arizona. We use leading technology and techniques to deliver precise, targeted radiation therapy while minimizing side effects.

There are many different types of brain tumors, which can be broadly classified into two categories: primary tumors and metastatic tumors.

Primary brain tumors originate in the brain and are classified according to the type of tissue in which they form. The most common primary brain tumors are gliomas, which arise from glial cells, and meningiomas, which develop in the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Treatment options typically involve multiple modalities, including surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

A metastatic tumor is a cancerous tumor that has spread to the brain from elsewhere in the body. The most common cancers that spread to the brain are lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Brain tumors can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on the size and location of the tumor. Symptoms may develop slowly or quickly and can worsen over time.

The most common symptom of a brain tumor is a headache. Other common symptoms include problems with balance or walking, changes in behavior or personality, and seizures (convulsions).

Our experts will order either an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a CT (computed tomography) scan if they suspect a brain tumor. These tests create detailed images of the inside of your body and can help our team determine the size, shape, and location of any tumors. Once a diagnosis is made, our team will develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient.

We believe every patient is unique and deserves a personalized treatment plan. New patients receive a comprehensive evaluation by our team of specialists. Our neuro-oncologist takes into account the type and stage of the tumor, your overall health and medical history, and your personal preferences to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Our neurosurgeons are experts in performing complex brain surgeries, and our radiation oncologists are experienced in using the latest technologies to deliver precise, targeted radiation.

The Radiant Oncology brain tumor center focuses on diagnosing and treating brain and spinal cord tumors. In conjunction with surgery and radiation, our use of medical therapy offers patients the best chance for a cure.

Our center is staffed by a team of specialists that includes neurosurgery, radiation oncology, neuro-oncology, neuropathology, and neuroradiology. This team approach to care ensures that each patient receives comprehensive and coordinated treatment.

Our multidisciplinary brain tumor center team holds weekly meetings to discuss and review each patient's case. This allows us to develop the most comprehensive and individualized treatment plan possible, and we work with each patient and their family to help them fully understand the risks and benefits of each treatment option.

Radiant Oncology is a leader in the treatment of brain tumors. We offer the latest treatments and technologies, as well as access to clinical trials. Through these comprehensive research efforts, we are able to offer our patients the most advanced and effective treatments available, including access to clinical trials for those who may be eligible.

Cancer is more than just a disease. It's a journey that can be physically and emotionally challenging for patients and their families. We understand the challenges cancer creates and are here to support you every step of the way.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll be welcomed by our compassionate and caring staff. We offer a variety of support services to help you and your family through this difficult time.

We'll help you navigate obstacles that may arise during your treatment and provide resources to help you cope with the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of cancer. No matter what challenges you face, we are here to support you on your journey.

World-Class Expertise: From the rarest conditions to the most common neurological disorders, our specialists provide world-class care. Our team has vast experience in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Sparing healthy tissue and minimizing side effects are the hallmarks of our approach to brain tumor surgery. We offer both traditional and minimally invasive brain surgery techniques.

A Multidisciplinary Approach: Our neurosurgeons work side by side with our medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other cancer specialists. This team approach provides patients with comprehensive care and the best possible outcomes.

A Commitment to Clinical Trials: Our highly trained specialists are constantly exploring new ways to improve patient outcomes. We offer many clinical trials for brain tumor patients, giving them access to the latest advances in treatment.

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and we are here to help you and your family every step of the way. To make an appointment with one of our specialists, please complete our contact form and our team will get in touch with you to schedule an appointment.