Brain Cancer

The Swedish Cancer Institute offers patients with brain cancer the expertise of highly trained physicians and other cancer specialists, complemented by an integrated approach to care, leading-edge imaging and diagnostic techniques, state-of-the-art treatment options and a wide selection of quality support services. Our multidisciplinary care teams meet regularly to share information and discuss patient cases, in order to determine the most beneficial course of care for each patient.

Symptoms of brain tumors vary widely depending on the type and location of the tumor. Some of the most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting and headaches.

Overview

A brain tumor, which is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain, can either be cancerous or benign (non-cancerous). There are many types of brain tumors – the difference being the kind of cells that make up the tumor. If cancer is the diagnosis, specialists will then obtain further information about the cancer cells, and determine the extent of the cancer, so that the best possible approach to treatment can be utilized. 

Treatments

Individualized treatment plan may include a combination of the following treatments:

Surgery

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (CyberKnife® & Gamma Knife®)   

Radiation therapy

Chemotherapy

Biological therapy

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Research and Clinical Trials

If your physician believes you are a good candidate to participate in a clinical trial evaluating a new treatment or more effective combinations of treatments — and you agree — you will have access to the very latest in research treatments.

At any given time, the Swedish Cancer Institute offers patients more than 140 clinical-research studies involving most types of cancers.  Additionally, our physician specialists collaborate with other regional and national research groups, including  Southwest Oncology Group, National Cancer Institute, Puget Sound Oncology Consortium and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Education and Support for Patients and Families

Beyond physical health, the Swedish Cancer Institute is committed to the emotional well-being of our patients and their families. We offer:

• Individual and family counseling, and support groups
• An on-site  education center
• A full array of  complementary therapies
• A dedicated  cancer rehabilitation program
• Specialized  nutrition care for those fighting cancer

Complementary therapies include:

• Naturopathic care
• Massage therapy
• Meditation
• Art therapy
• Music therapy

See Patient Support and Resources and Services for the Body, Mind and Spirit at Swedish.

Appointments & Referrals

Brain Surgery

CyberKnife

Visit the Radiosurgery Center

Radiation Therapy

Chemotherapy & Biological Therapy