Glioma tumors
There are several types of gliomas, both cancerous and noncancerous. For either, a lot of information is coming at you. Let us help you make sense of it. We're your champions from day one through recovery.
This group of tumors affects the largest outermost part of the brain and the lower part of the brain. This can impact parts of the brain that control everything from movement and thinking to balance and optic nerves. About a third of diagnosed brain tumors are gliomas. Your treatment heavily depends on the size, location and type of glioma. We're focused on giving you the best outcome possible.
Treatment options
Glioma tumors are medically challenging, but we offer unique treatment options that are up to that challenge. For example, we are the area’s only health system to offer Tumor Treating Fields therapy. This breakthrough technology uses electrical fields to stop growth in aggressive tumors like gliomas. We also have the region’s only iMRI—technology that uses imaging to guide the surgeon while performing the procedure. This breakthrough is improving survival rates. It's also showing promise as a means of improving the results of other treatments, like chemotherapy.
Because there are several types of gliomas, your treatment plan will depend on the size, location and type. Whether it’s cancerous or noncancerous, we have the right treatment for you. Learn more about our treatment options below.
Chemotherapy
Even with aggressive treatment, tumors can grow back. Chemotherapy can help control and monitor tumors that have grown back when radiation isn't enough.
Radiation therapy
Radiation may be suggested in a couple scenarios. First, radiation can reduce the size of the tumor when surgery can't completely remove it. Second, even if the tumor is completely removed, radiation can reduce the risk of a tumor returning.
iMRI
We offer the region’s only iMRI to remove complex tumors. This image guides us to precisely remove as much of the tumor as possible. The iMRI also reduces damage to surrounding healthy brain tissue.
Surgery
Surgery removes the tumor, or as much of it as possible. Tumors are often tangled or wrapped around nearby tissue or nerves, making it impossible to completely remove it.
Neuro rehabilitation
Our physical therapy and rehabilitation experts don't just work on improving your physical function. We understand that neurological connections with your brain and your nerves affect your physical, cognitive and emotional health. Our holistic approach brings you greater success.
Tumor treating fields therapy
This innovative therapy uses electrical fields to disrupt the rapid cell division that is common in aggressive brain tumors. We are the only treatment center in West Michigan providing this advanced treatment option.
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