Brain, Spine, and CNS Tumors Radiation Therapy
Advanced, Personalized Treatment for Brain and Central Nervous System Cancers
At ARC, we provide advanced radiation therapy for brain, spine, and central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Combining the most sophisticated technology with compassionate, individualized care, our expert team offers hope and results for patients with complex cancers.
Understanding Brain, Spine & CNS Tumors
Brain, spine, and CNS tumors encompass a variety of malignancies, each with unique characteristics and treatment requirements. Primary brain tumors originate from the cells within the brain itself, such as neural or connective tissues. Conversely, metastatic brain tumors arise from cancer cells that have traveled from other parts of the body to the brain.
ARC stands at the forefront of treating these complex conditions. We were the first practice in Long Island and Rockland counties to offer the Trilogy Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) Accelerator, marking a significant advancement in precision therapy for CNS tumors. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art linear accelerators featuring precision isocenters, enabling highly conformal, directed beam configurations essential for treating tumors near sensitive structures such as the brainstem, optic nerves, or spinal cord.
Advanced Treatment Options for CNS Tumors
At ARC, the approach to treating brain and spinal tumors is comprehensive and individualized. Treatment may involve:
- Surgery First: A neurosurgeon (for brain tumors) or orthopedic surgeon (for spine tumors) may first perform surgery to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. This may be followed by radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining microscopic disease.
- Radiation as Primary Therapy: In cases where surgery is not an option, radiation may serve as the primary mode of treatment, either alone or combined with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or oral targeted agents.
Our advanced radiation technologies include:
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)
- High-precision techniques delivered in 1 to 5 treatments
- Ideal for small, well-defined tumors in sensitive locations
- Often used in place of or following surgery
- Sometimes referred to as “CyberKnife-like” technology, our systems offer the same advanced capabilities with integrated image guidance
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)
- Treatment delivered over several weeks
- Allows modulation of beam intensity to conform to the tumor while protecting healthy tissue
- Highly effective for larger or more irregularly shaped tumors
The best treatment approach depends on the tumor’s type, size, location, and your overall health. Our radiation oncologists, in collaboration with medical physicists, dosimetrists, and referring physicians, create a tailored treatment plan to ensure the highest standards of care and precision.
Potential Side Effects of Brain and Spine Radiation
Most patients tolerate radiation therapy well. Side effects, if any, typically develop over time and may include:
- Fatigue, especially later in the treatment course
- Scalp or skin irritation, which is generally mild and temporary
- Swelling of brain tissue, managed preventively or responsively with low-dose steroids
You will meet with your radiation oncologist weekly during treatment to monitor your response and manage any side effects. Long-term risks are rare and are reviewed thoroughly during your initial consultation.
The Radiation Treatment Process
Consultation
Your care at ARC begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this initial visit, you and your family will meet with one of our experienced radiation oncologists to review your diagnosis and medical history. Together, you’ll explore the most appropriate and effective radiation treatment options tailored to your individual needs. The discussion will also include treatment expectations, potential side effects, and available alternatives to ensure you are fully informed and confident in your care plan.
Simulation (Your Treatment Planning Session)
Once radiation is recommended, you’ll begin with a session called a simulation—a detailed planning appointment that lasts about 45–60 minutes.
During this session:
We help you get into the best position for your treatment, sometimes using a custom mold to ensure you’re positioned the same way every day.
Tiny, freckle-sized tattoos may be placed on your skin to help us align your body accurately before each treatment.
A special imaging scan is performed to pinpoint exactly where the cancer is, so we can target it while protecting nearby healthy tissues.
The Planning process (Behind the Scenes)
After your simulation, your care team—which includes your radiation oncologist, medical physicists, and dosimetrists—will work together to create a custom radiation plan just for you. Using advanced 3D computer software, they map out how to deliver the exact amount of radiation to the right place, while minimizing exposure to healthy areas.
This planning process usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, and it results in a detailed “blueprint” that guides your daily treatments.
Daily Radiation Treatments
Radiation is typically given once a day, five days a week for several weeks. Treatments are done using a machine called a linear accelerator, which delivers invisible, high-energy radiation beams to the cancer.
Here’s what you can expect:
Each visit takes about 10–15 minutes, with most of the time spent getting you into position. The actual treatment only lasts a few minutes.
- You won’t see or feel the radiation, and there’s no pain during treatment.
- The treatment room is spacious and not claustrophobic.
- In some cases (such as prostate treatment), you may be asked to drink water before your appointment to help move the bladder away from the treatment area.
- Most patients feel well enough to drive themselves, go to work, exercise, and continue their daily routines.
- Your radiation oncologist will let you know if there are any specific precautions or changes you should make during treatment.
Weekly On-Treatment Physician Review
During your treatment course, you’ll have weekly visits with your radiation oncologist. These short check-ins help us:
- Monitor how you’re feeling
- Check for any side effects
- Adjust medications if needed
- Answer any questions you have
- These visits are an important part of your care and help us support you every step of the way.
Completion of Therapy and Follow-Ups
At the end of your treatment, you’ll meet with your radiation oncologist to talk about:
- What to expect in the coming weeks
- How side effects should improve
- Whether any additional treatment or follow-up is needed
- Regular follow-up appointments are essential after radiation to monitor your recovery and watch for any signs of recurrence. We’ll be here to support you long after your final treatment.
- If you ever have questions or need guidance along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you feel informed, confident, and cared for throughout your journey.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential after radiation to monitor your recovery and watch for any signs of recurrence. We’ll be here to support you long after your final treatment.
If you ever have questions or need guidance along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you feel informed, confident, and cared for throughout your journey.