Brain Cancer & Tumor Surgery

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgical oncologists are experts in advanced methods to remove cancerous (malignant) and noncancerous (benign) tumors. 

We work with neurosurgeons at UPMC's Department of Neurosurgery to treat:

The surgical team uses advanced:

• Computerized image guidance systems
• Endoscopes
• Other minimally invasive brain and spine surgical techniques

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Brain Cancer

Over the past two decades, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center's neurosurgical oncologists have pioneered and refined minimally invasive surgical techniques, including:

• Neuroendoport® surgery — neurosurgeons use an endoscope, through a clear tubular port, to access deep regions of the brain.
• Awake craniotomies — during surgery, patients are awake so the neurosurgical team can map areas of motor and speech before tumor removal. This allows neurosurgeons to remove more of the tumor and lessen damage to healthy tissue, since they can track critical functions.

These procedures allow access to tumors once thought unresectable, such as tumors:

• Deep within the brain.
• In areas with vital brain functions.

Your surgeon will discuss your options with you after a thorough review of your diagnosis.

Surgical treatment of brain and nervous system cancer often goes hand-in-hand with medical oncology or radiation for greater results.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery for Brain and Spine Tumors

Compared to traditional, open neurosurgery, minimally invasive methods can offer:

People often leave the hospital within a few days after surgery with few — if any — lingering side effects.

And, people with brain, spine, or nervous system cancer can start follow-up chemotherapy or radiation therapy quickly. This gives the drugs a chance to work before the tumor potentially returns.

Contact the Neuro-Oncology Program to Make an Appointment

To learn more about brain and nervous system cancer or to make an appointment, you can:

• Call 412-647-2811.
• Contact a UPMC Hillman Cancer Center near you.

Fill out our online contact form.