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What is Neuro-Oncology?
The ONS neurosurgical team provides comprehensive surgical management of patients with a variety of brain, spine, and peripheral nerve tumors using the latest in intra-operative neuro-navigation. In the operating room, high resolution MRI images are used to create a 3-D visual reconstruction of the patient’s brain, which is then used as a map of the brain. This system acts like GPS for the brain and helps guide the surgeon to safely and completely remove the tumor. When necessary, intraoperative brain mapping of functional cortex may also be done.
Dr. Simon and CyberKnife
Dr. Scott Simon is Neurosurgical Director of Cyberknife Radiosurgery for the Stamford Hospital CyberKnife team, which includes radiation oncologists, surgeons, medical physicists, radiation therapists, a nurse and a medical dosimetrist. Patients also have the support of a dedicated CyberKnife nurse coordinator, who communicates with both the patient and physicians.
The CyberKnife System
Adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy, radiosurgery and whole brain radiation may also be indicated. A team of top medical specialists meets regularly to develop an individual treatment plan for each patient. This team of experts is composed of neurosurgeons, neurologists, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, medical oncologists and neuroradiologists.
Radiosurgery is delivered through the Cyberknife System, one of the most advanced radiosurgical systems available. The CyberKnife system, manufactured by Accuray Incorporated, is a noninvasive image-guided robotic surgery system. It is designed to continuously track and detect tumor location and correct for tumor and patient movement during treatment. Radiation beams are directed into tumors from virtually unlimited directions with extreme accuracy, with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue and vital organs.
The technology has already been used to treat more than 40,000 patients by over 100 institutions around the world. This includes many of the world’s most prestigious cancer centers.