Interstitial radiation for treatment of primary brain tumors using the Brown-Roberts-Wells stereotaxic system.

Overview

While techniques and practice of stereotaxic surgery have been available for decades, recent technical and theoretical advances have allowed for a rebirth of this neurosurgical subspecialty. One of the newer applications of this technique is the stereotaxic treatment of malignant brain tumors. This method depends on the CT-guided placement of a tiny coaxial catheter system precisely on target within the tumor area. Radioactive sources in the catheter deliver a precise amount of radiation over a specific time course. The system is then removed. Follow-up of the patients who undergo this procedure continues throughout their lives.