However, cancerous or not, a tumor can create pressure on vital areas in the brain. Most benign brain tumors are treatable with surgery or radiation. It s true that some low-grade tumors can be completely removed and cured by surgery. Radiotherapy is used to slow the growth or reduce the size of tumors. While radiation can be delivered conventionally that is, by using external beams aimed at the tumor there are other techniques.
Chemotherapeutic drugs destroy cancer cells and are used to treat certain types of brain tumors.
Chemotherapy often is preferred over radiation in treatment of young children with brain tumors, as radiation may have adverse affects on the developing brain. The referring doctor may give the patient the names of a few neurosurgeons, and the insurance company also may have some input based on which doctors are in its coverage network. One critical question the patient should ask is whether the doctor is board certified in neurosurgery. To be board certified, the doctor must have successfully completed an accredited residency program as well as written and oral examinations. Selecting the facility where treatment will be given is also important.