Metastatic Brain Tumor Program

The Metastatic Brain Tumor Program at UCLA is studying the effects of eliminating whole brain radiation from the treatment of brain metastases. Two current studies include:

Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy: For patients who have recently undergone surgical resection of brain metastases, we offer an experimental trial testing the efficacy of delivering stereotactic radiation to the tumor bed using the Novalis stereotactic radiosurgery system. The goal of therapy is to treat the area most susceptible to recurrence, the tumor bed, while sparing the normal unaffected brain from radiation damage.

Cognitive Effects of Eliminating Whole Brain Radiation Therapy: For patients with five or fewer brain metatastases treated with surgery or radiosurgery, we are collecting cognitive and quality-of-life data to evaluate whether eliminating whole brain radiation improves patients quality of life. In addition, this data will be used to look for characteristics that predict which patients would most benefit from focal therapy.

The Metastatic Brain Tumor Program is also examining the efficacy of stereotactic radiofrequency ablation of metastatic brain tumors. Using stereotactic precision and interventional MRI scanning, metastatic tumors are first localized, biopsied and then destroyed with radiofrequency thermal energy delivered via stereotactically placed electrode. More than 10 patients have entered into this clinical trial and the results appear promising. The technique appears safe and effective.