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Neurosurgeons specialize in treating brain tumors through traditional (open) surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and CyberKnife radiosurgery, a noninvasive form of radiation therapy. They perform biopsies (taking tiny tissue samples) to test for cancer and surgically remove tumors and surrounding tissue.

Neuro-oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancerous tumors of the brain and spinal cord. They treat these cancers using medications including chemotherapy. Neuro-oncologists often serve as your main health care provider, coordinating your treatment among several specialists.

These cancer specialists have subspecialty training in high-energy X-rays and other radiation therapy. Radiation can destroy cancer cells or prevent their spread. Using advanced technologies, radiation oncologists can precisely target cancer cells to avoid damaging nearby healthy tissue.

These oncology-certified health care providers work with your oncologist to help with diagnosis and treatment. APPs may recommend medications, lifestyle changes, and services such as genetic counseling. An APP can be a nurse practitioner (NP) or physician assistant (PA).Ìý

Interventional neuroradiologists use imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs to diagnose and treat conditions of the central nervous system, head, neck, and spine.

A neurotologist is a type of otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist, or ENT). This doctor provides medical and surgical care to people with diseases that affect the ears, balance system, certain skull bones, and other head and neck structures.

A neuroradiologist uses imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs to diagnose conditions of the central nervous system, head, neck, and spine.Ìý

Neuro-anesthesiologists specialize in using medications to block pain, help you relax, or make you unconscious for brain tumor procedures. Neuro-anesthesiologists also monitor your vital functions such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate during surgery. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, you may need local (small area), regional (larger area), or general (overall) anesthesia.

Neuropathologists specialize in diagnosing conditions of the brain and nervous system through microscopic evaluation of tissue sampled during biopsy or surgery.

Neurointensivists specialize in the care of critically ill people with brain or spinal cord conditions, who require additional care and close monitoring, usually in a neurointensive care unit.

CyberKnife coordinators are your single point of contact during treatment and work with you and your doctor. They coordinate insurance authorization, determine clinical trials eligibility, and gather information before consultation. They also expedite appointments and schedule your follow-up imaging and surgeon appointments.

Genetic counseling is designed for people whose medical history shows the possibility of an inherited gene mutation. Genetic counselors have specialized experience in cancer genetics, the study of genes and gene mutations, and how they affect a person’s risk of cancer.Ìý They work with you and your doctors to perform and review any genetic testing and help you understand the results.

• Occupational therapists are skilled practitioners who provide rehabilitation care to help you regain strength and functional ability during and after treatment for cancer. They help you with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, managing your medications, and driving.
• Physical therapists work with you and your family to recover your physical function after treatment, such as improving your:
  • Strength, especially in the upper body
  • Sensation to relieve numbness in treated areas
  • Range of motion to reduce stiffness and pain
  • Movement control to improve endurance and reduce fatigue

If you qualify for a clinical trial, our ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½ coordinators guide you through the process. They educate you about what to expect during the study, answer your questions, and schedule your appointments.