Brain Tumor treatment in Kolkata depends on the type, location, size of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Here are the common treatment options for brain tumors:
1. Surgery
- Craniotomy: The most common type of brain tumor surgery where a section of the skull is removed to access the brain and remove the tumor.
- Biopsy: A sample of the tumor is taken to diagnose the type and grade of the tumor.
2. Radiation Therapy
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Uses high-energy beams to target and kill tumor cells. Techniques include:
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): Delivers radiation more precisely to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): A highly focused form of radiation therapy that delivers a large dose of radiation to a small tumor area. Examples include Gamma Knife and CyberKnife.
3. Chemotherapy
- Systemic Chemotherapy: Drugs are administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Local Chemotherapy: Directly delivers chemotherapy to the tumor site, such as through wafer implants during surgery (e.g., Gliadel wafers).
- Common drugs include temozolomide (Temodar) and carmustine (BCNU).
4. Targeted Therapy
- Drugs that target specific genetic mutations or abnormalities in tumor cells. Examples include:
- Bevacizumab (Avastin): Inhibits the growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor.
5. Immunotherapy
- Treatments that boost the body’s immune system to fight the tumor. Examples include:
- Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack tumor cells.
- Tumor Treating Fields (Optune): A device that uses electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
6. Steroids
- Used to reduce inflammation and swelling around the tumor, often dexamethasone is prescribed.
7. Anticonvulsants
- Medications to prevent or control seizures, which are common in patients with brain tumors.
8. Rehabilitation
- Physical Therapy: Helps regain strength and coordination.
- Occupational Therapy: Assists in relearning daily activities.
- Speech Therapy: Helps with speech and swallowing difficulties.
9. Clinical Trials
- Participation in clinical trials may provide access to new and experimental treatments.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Brain Tumor treatment in Kolkata plans are personalized based on:
- Type and grade of the tumor (e.g., gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary tumors, etc.).
- Tumor location and size.
- Patient’s age and overall health.
- Symptoms and functional status.
- Genetic and molecular characteristics of the tumor.
Consultation with Specialists for Brain Tumor treatment in Kolkata
It is crucial to consult with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Follow-Up Care in Brain Tumor treatment in Kolkata
Regular follow-up with imaging (MRI or CT scans) and medical evaluations are essential to monitor for tumor recurrence and manage any long-term effects of treatment.