WASHINGTON, D.C.: Precise surgical treatments for brain cancer offer patients a better quality of life, according to a national study involving a Winston-Salem surgeon.
The study is co-authored by Dr. Volker Stieber of Piedmont Radiation Oncology.
Researchers focused on the use of whole brain radiotherapy on patients with metastatic brain tumors also treated with stereotactic (precisely targeted) radiosurgery. Metastatic brain tumors are those that have spread from some other part of the body to the brain.
Previous research had shown evidence that whole brain radiotherapy could diminish cognitive brain function in patients, causing difficulties with short-term memory and slow speech.
Researchers determined there was less cognitive decline in patients who received the precise brain radiotherapy, thus their quality of life was less impaired.
“Before this study, there was significant controversy as to the benefits and side effects of the different approaches,” Stieber said.
“Now, we have the facts we need to customize the treatment to the personal needs and preferences of each patient.”
The study covered the period from February 2002 to December 2013 at 34 North American medical facilities, including Novant Health Inc. hospitals. Patients in the study had between one and three brain metastases.