MD Anderson is one of the few cancer centers in the United States with a comprehensive program focused on malignant and benign skull base tumors. This high level of experience and expertise could make a difference in the success of your treatment.
Every time I see beauty through my eyes, I am reminded of my miracle and how fortunate I was to be treated at MD Anderson.
MD Anderson's team approach to skull base tumors brings together renowned experts from many specialties to give you comprehensive, personalized care. A group of specialists meets regularly to discuss your needs and options. This exchange of ideas sets the stage for delivering the highest level of care for skull base tumors.
This approach begins with your first visit and continues through diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up. Your team may include surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, ophthalmologists, nutritionists, nurses and social workers. And they have at their fingertips the latest technology and techniques to diagnose and treat skull base tumors, including minimally invasive surgery, innovative radiotherapy and one of the few proton therapy centers in the nation.
Surgical Skill
Surgery is often part of the treatment for skull base tumors. The location deep in the structures of the head presents significant challenges because important nerve and brain structures may be involved.
Our surgeons have pioneered techniques and surgical approaches that allow for maximum safe removal of tumors in this delicate and complex area. They are experts in open and minimally invasive diagnostic and surgical approaches to skull base tumors.
Members of both MD Anderson's Head and Neck Center and Brain and Spine Center, our surgeons have extensive experience in skull base tumor procedures. They have been recognized in US News & World Report's list of Best Doctors in America, and they are respected around the world.
Advanced Radiation Therapy, Rehabilitation
For patients with skull base tumors that are responsive to irradiation, radiation oncologists prepare three-dimensional treatment plans for the precise delivery of radiation therapy. MD Anderson's Proton Therapy Center provides an additional treatment option for patients with specific tumors that are well suited to this innovative therapy.
Giving patients with skull base tumors the opportunity and the tools to enjoy life fully is an important part of care at MD Anderson. Many patients can overcome limitations caused by skull base tumors or treatment effects with the help of caring professionals, who may include audiologists, behavioral psychologists, language therapists, neuropsychologists, nutritionists and occupational, physical, speech and swallowing therapists.
And, as one of the nation's leading cancer centers, MD Anderson is able to offer a range of clinical trials of new treatments for skull base tumors.
Facts
Understanding a disease is the first step toward finding the right care. Get the facts about skull base tumors, including the different types, how it starts and who's at risk.
Did you know?
Our sophisticated operating room technology includes image guidance and surgical robotics.
Symptoms
Most cancers have the same symptoms as other, less serious conditions. Still, it’s important to know the signs.
Diagnosis
Blood tests, imaging exams and even surgical procedures are used to check for cancer. Learn what methods doctors use to diagnose skull base tumors, as well as how they determine its stage.
Treatment
Common cancer treatments include chemotherapy, radiation treatment and surgery. Doctors select a treatment plan based on your diagnosis and disease stage.
In March 2014, I tried to connect a boat trailer to my minivan, ploughed head-first into the closed tailgate and really hurt my neck.
An X-ray showed I hadn’t broken my neck, but the doctors saw something near the back of my brain, at the base of my skull. A CT scan confirmed it was a tumor. The doctor was elated because he found it before I had any symptoms. I had mixed emotions, and it took a while to process the news.
