Treatments
Pediatric brain tumors are often treated successfully with surgery alone; others may require a combination of therapies. Your child’s team meets regularly to discuss treatment and progress and makes adjustments as needed.
Neurosurgery
As experts with years of experience caring for caring for children with brain tumors, our pediatric neurosurgeons balance the risk for surgical injury with the importance of removing the tumor when other treatments might not be as effective. We use advanced brain mapping and sophisticated imaging tools to identify the exact tumor location. This ensures accurate diagnosis and tumor staging and helps minimize the risks from surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, often used in conjunction with radiation and surgery, is used to treat some brain tumors. We provide standard and novel treatments, with the support of a comprehensive team of pharmacists, oncology nurses, and research support staff.
Immunotherapy
Duke is a leader in developing effective immune-based therapies for treating the most severe pediatric brain tumors. We offer a complete array of treatments designed to harness the power of the immune system, including cancer vaccines, immunotoxins, T cells, and anti-cancer viral therapy.
Radiation
Radiation therapy uses energy beams to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. We take special care to protect your child’s developing, healthy brain by using advanced imaging and radiation delivery techniques.
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy
Brain tumors and treatments can cause limitations in your child’s ability to live a healthy, active life. Our physical, occupational, and speech therapists specialize in caring for children with brain and spinal cord tumors and will work to help your child recover and reach his or her full potential.
