- Specialized expertise in treating all types of cancerous and noncancerous spine and brain tumors, from common to rare and complex. Go to Conditions Treated
- Advanced treatment options including noninvasive CyberKnife radiation, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and targeted therapies. Go to Treatments
- Team-based approach that brings together specialists from multiple fields and weekly Tumor Board meetings to tailor treatment to your needs. Go to Your Care Team
- Clinical trials to identify new personalized treatment options and improve existing techniques such as combining surgery and CyberKnife. Go to Clinical Trials
- Comprehensive support services including educational workshops, fitness classes, and support groups to help you get back to living your life. Go to Supportive Services
- Ease of access with dedicated nurse coordinators who will partner with you and your family and guide you through each step of your care. Go to Connecting to Care
Conditions Treated
Each member of our team has advanced training in diagnosing and treating spine and brain tumors to deliver the expertise and care you need most.
We lead the way in translating discoveries into new diagnostic and treatment options. Our research and clinical trials have opened doors to technologies and techniques that are changing and saving lives around the world.
Our neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuroradiologists, radiation oncologists, neuropathologists, and medical physicists come together to surround you with expert care. They effectively treat all types of spine and brain tumors, including those that other health centers consider too challenging.
Our areas of expertise include primary brain tumors (tumors that start in the brain), metastatic tumors (cancer cells that have spread to the brain from elsewhere in the body), and spine tumors.
Leaders in Skull Base Surgery
Skull base surgery is a highly-specialized field that addresses tumors and other abnormalities on the underside of the brain or base of the skull. Our program is ranked among the top in the world.
Brain metastases are cancer cells that begin growing elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain. Like primary brain tumors, which are tumors that originate in the brain, brain metastases can affect various structures like nerves, blood vessels, glands such as the pituitary gland, brain cells, or the tissue that covers the brain called the meninges.
- Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma)
- Glioma (typically cancerous tumor that starts in the glial cells of the brain or spinal cord), including astrocytoma, ependymoma, ganglioglioma, and oligodendroglioma
- Glioblastoma (cancerous brain or spine tumor)
- Meningioma and meningioma of the skull base
- Pituitary tumors
- Craniopharyngioma (noncancerous brain tumor)
- Cushing's syndrome
- Pituitary adenoma (noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland)
- Rare tumors:
- Chordoma (cancerous tumor that grows in bones along the spine or at the base of the skull)
- Gangliocytoma (noncancerous brain or spinal cord tumor made up of nerve cells)
- Hemangioblastoma (noncancerous tumor in blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord)
- Medulloblastoma (cancerous brain tumor that starts in the lower back part of the brain)
- Neurocytoma (typically noncancerous brain tumor)
- Cancers of the blood
- Leukemia (cancer in the bone marrow and blood)
- Lymphoma (cancer in the lymph nodes)
- Myeloma (cancer in plasma cells, a type of white blood cells)
- Chordoma (cancerous bone tumor that can occur anywhere along the spine or at the base of the skull)
- Glioma (typically cancerous tumor that starts in the glial cells of the brain or spinal cord), including astrocytoma, ependymoma, ganglioglioma, and oligodendroglioma
- Glioblastoma (cancerous brain or spine tumor)
- Meningioma
- Schwannoma (tumor in the tissue that covers spinal nerves)
- Rare tumors:
- Chordoma (cancerous tumor that grows in bones along the spine or at the base of the skull)
- Gangliocytoma (noncancerous tumor in the brain or spinal cord made up of nerve cells)
- Hemangioblastoma (noncancerous tumor in blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord)
We combine expertise, advanced technology, and a patient-centered approach to develop personalized treatment plans. Working closely with you, we review all treatment options together to determine the right plan for you.
We bring together experts from multiple medical fields to go over each case at a weekly review. You receive specialized care you can trust, from a compassionate team who understands your needs.
INNOVATION HIGHLIGHTS
- Stanford Medicine neurosurgeons revolutionized cancer care by inventing CyberKnife radiosurgery. More recently, our doctors have led the way in expanding use of CyberKnife to noncancerous tumors and other conditions.
- Our specialists in skull base tumors have pioneered new technologies and techniques, bringing hope to many people with previously untreatable tumors.
- Our neurosurgeons use virtual reality and 3D printing to model tumors and plan treatment techniques and approaches before your surgery.
- Our world-renowned neurosurgeons share our innovative techniques with physicians around the world through fellowships and other training to translate research into practice.
Surgery is usually the first treatment for many brain and spine tumors, both noncancerous and cancerous. For many tumors, CyberKnife radiosurgery — a noninvasive, robotic delivery system for radiation therapy — offers another initial treatment option. Our neurosurgeons are nationally recognized experts in the latest minimally invasive and advanced techniques, even for the most complex cases. We will help you determine the best treatment for your needs.
We successfully treat a high volume of patients, giving us the extensive experience you need for the best care possible. We use the latest technology for treatment planning and mid-surgery monitoring to safely remove as much of the tumor as possible while avoiding critical brain structures, including those used for language, motor, and sensory function.
Our neurosurgeons deliver the highest level of expertise in advanced minimally invasive and open surgery for brain tumors to aggressively — but safely — remove tumors that begin growing in the brain.
Skull Base Surgery addresses tumors and other abnormalities on the underside of the brain or base of the skull. Our Tumor Genomics Program can help identify a cancer’s unique genetic fingerprint and provide critical insights for fighting it. Through our clinical trials offerings, you can explore promising new therapies before they are widely available.
Our surgeons perform transcranial (through the skull) surgery to remove tumors at the base of the skull or brain. Transcranial surgery can be used to treat a wide range of cancerous and non-cancerous skull base tumors that may be too large for other types of surgery. Our team utilizes advanced techniques, such as virtual reality and 3D printing, to prepare for procedures.
The CyberKnife system provides an effective alternative to traditional surgery for treating cancerous and noncancerous tumors. The system uses computerized, real-time imaging to deliver the maximum safe dose of radiation from different angles, directly to the tumor or target tissue.
If you have a cancerous tumor, you are in expert hands at Stanford Health Care. With comprehensive treatment options and leading expertise, our team of neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists design the best care plan for you.
In addition to surgery and CyberKnife radiation therapy, we offer a full range of treatments to meet your unique needs:
If you have a slow-growing tumor, we may recommend monitoring it for signs that it may be worsening and need treatment. Your doctor works with you to determine how often and what type of testing you need.
To relieve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend medications such as:
- Anticonvulsants to reduce the risk of seizures
- Steroids to reduce swelling in your brain and spinal cord
Your doctor may recommend anticancer drugs, which serve different purposes in spine and brain tumor treatment. Some work to slow or stop the tumor growth and spread. Others stimulate the immune system to target and attack specific cancer cells. Your doctor will help you determine the right kind for you. Drug therapies for treating cancerous tumors include:
We have expertise in delivering a range of radiation options that protect healthy tissue, including different types and doses to fit your preferences and lifestyle. We offer several treatment options for fast, effective, and precise maximum-dose radiation therapy in fewer office visits. We also treat the most complex, hardest-to-target brain tumors with specific, effective doses. Radiation options include:
- 3D conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) uses 3D imaging to match the energy beams delivered from various angles to the exact shape of your tumor.
- Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) works similarly to 3D-CRT but allows your doctor to adjust the radiation dose of each beam to avoid healthy tissue.
Cancer tumors, such as brain metastases and glioblastomas, have unique genes or proteins called biomarkers. By identifying these biomarkers, doctors can choose a treatment designed for that cancer. Some biomarkers can also help your care team monitor the tumor during and after treatment. Our experienced pathologists perform biomarker testing and work with your doctor to develop the right treatment options for you.
Your wellness plays a role in the success of your treatment. We offer our Circle of Care to assist you and your family throughout your cancer journey. Whether its spiritual counseling, a new wig, or help with your finances, we’re here for you whenever you need us.
Innovation Through Clinical Research
Stanford Health Care Neuroscience actively participates in groundbreaking research and clinical trials to evaluate new and better ways to diagnose, treat, and manage neurological disorders. Participating in a trial may give you access to experimental therapies that are not available otherwise. We also partner with the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute to better understand the brain, develop new treatments for brain disorders, and promote brain health.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.
Open trials refer to studies currently recruiting participants or that may recruit participants in the near future. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but similar studies may open in the future.
To learn more about the clinical trials we offer, visit: Stanford Cancer Institute Clinical Trials.
We understand how a neurological disorder impacts all aspects of your life. Our signature Circle of Care approach is here to guide you. We listen to understand your unique situation, and then we bring together experts including doctors, specialists, nurses, and care coordinators to create a plan just for you. With a team on your side and a wide range of support services, you receive a complete, coordinated experience. Learn what to expect and see how we put you at the center of care.
Each person's breast cancer experience is unique, which is why we provide customized care for you. Our doctors, nurses, technicians, and staff are here to support you throughout your journey with treatment plans tailored to fit your individual needs. At weekly review meetings, experts from multiple disciplines review cases that require more complex recommendations.
Your Doctors
Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons specialize in treating brain and spinal cord cancer through traditional (open), minimally invasive surgery, and CyberKnife radiosurgery, a noninvasive form of radiation therapy. Surgical oncologists perform biopsies (taking tiny tissue samples) to test for cancer. They also surgically remove tumors and surrounding tissue.
View All {0} Neurosurgeons »Neuro-oncologist
Neuro-oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancerous tumors of the brain and spinal cord. They treat these cancers using medications including chemotherapy and biologic therapy, such as targeted therapy. Neuro-oncologists often serve as your main health care provider, coordinating your treatment among several specialists.
View All {0} Neuro-oncologists »Radiation Oncologist
Radiation oncologists specialize in using high-energy X-rays and other radiation therapy such as CyberKnife to treat cancerous and noncancerous brain and spinal cord tumors. Radiation can destroy cancer cells and prevent them from spreading, and it can destroy noncancerous tumor tissue. Using advanced technologies, radiation oncologists can precisely target tumor cells to avoid damaging nearby healthy tissue.
View All {0} Radiation Oncologists »Interventional Neuroradiologist
Interventional neuroradiologists use imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs to diagnose and treat conditions of the central nervous system, head, neck, and spine.
View All {0} Interventional Neuroradiologists »Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)
Our skilled nurse practitioners specialize in diagnosing and treating spine and brain tumors. They see patients independently and occasionally alongside your doctor. APPs can give you a thorough exam, write prescriptions, and help prevent or treat any issues. Our APPs meet weekly to discuss patient needs.
View All {0} Advanced Practice Provider Doctors »Extended Care Team
Neurotologist
A neurotologist is a type of otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialists, or ENT) who provides medical and surgical care of people with diseases that affect the ears, balance system, temporal bone, skull base, and related structures of the head and neck.
View All {0} Neurotologists »Rhinologist
A rhinologist is a type of otolaryngologist (ENT) who has unique expertise in the medical and surgical treatment of nasal and sinus disorders.
View All {0} Rhinologists »Neuroendocrinologist
Neuroendocrinologists diagnose and treat people who have diseases that involve the brain and the endocrine system (glands and hormones). Our neurosurgeons partner with neuroendocrinologists to treat pituitary tumors.
View All {0} Neuroendocrinologists »Neuroradiologist
A neuroradiologist uses imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs to diagnose conditions of the central nervous system, head, neck, and spine.
View All {0} Neuroradiologists »Neuro-Anesthesiologists
Neuro-anesthesiologists specialize in using medications to block pain, help you relax, or make you unconscious for spine and brain tumor procedures. Neuro-anesthesiologists also monitor your vital functions such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate during surgery. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, you may need local (small area), regional (larger area), or general (overall) anesthesia.
Neuropathologist
Neuropathologists specialize in diagnosing conditions of the brain and nervous system through microscopic evaluation of tissue sampled during biopsy or surgery.
View All {0} Neuropathologists »Neurocritical Care Specialist
Neurointensivists specialize in the care of critically ill people with brain or spinal cord conditions, who require additional care and close monitoring usually in a neurointensive care unit.
View All {0} Neurocritical Care Specialists »Pathologist
Clinical pathologists specialize in diagnosing conditions by examining bodily fluids such as blood and urine.
View All {0} Pathologists »Genetic Counselors
Some brain and spine tumor conditions have a genetic component. Our counselors from the Cancer Genetics Program can guide you through decision-making about genetic testing for you and your family.
Nurses and Nurse Coordinators (RNs)
Nurses and nurse coordinators are registered nurses who coordinate your care with your brain and spine tumor team. They guide you from your first contact through follow-up care and help you find counseling, financial, and other support services.
Care Coordinators
Care coordinators provide you with information and assistance before and during your appointment.
- Medical Assistants: Medical assistants work with our team to help provide care. They may prepare you for an examination, assist your doctor, or take your vital signs before your appointment.
- Patient Care Coordinators: Our patient care coordinators help you with scheduling appointments and accessing your lab results. They are your first line of contact before you see your provider and guide you during your breast cancer care.
- Patient Access Representatives: Patient access representatives can answer all your questions about health insurance coverage, help you apply for health insurance, and refer you to our financial counselors.
Research Coordinators
Doctors at Stanford Medicine Cancer Center participate in research efforts to advance the understanding of spine and brain tumors and their treatment. Research coordinators help screen candidates for possible participation in clinical research trials.
CyberKnife Coordinators
CyberKnife coordinators serve as your single point of contact during treatment. CyberKnife patient coordinators work with you and your doctor to coordinate insurance authorization, determine clinical trials eligibility, and gather information before consultation. They also schedule your follow-up imaging and visit with your surgeon, and expedite appointments.
Rehabilitation Specialists
- Occupational therapists are skilled practitioners who provide rehabilitation care to help you regain functional ability during and after treatment for cancer. They help you with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, managing your medications, and driving.
- Physical therapists work with you and your family to recover your physical function after treatment, such as improving your:
- Strength, especially in the upper body
- Sensation, to relieve numbness in treated areas
- Range of motion, to reduce stiffness and pain
- Movement control, to improve endurance and reduce fatigue
Neuro Care Services
Part of your care involves managing your emotional and spiritual health. We offer you and your loved ones services that can help you stay strong through your treatment and recovery.
Our wide range of support services offer a single point of contact to assess your needs and connect you to the help you need. Contact our Neuro Care Services for your personal support plan.
We make access to care as simple as possible. We anticipate what you need and provide support when you need it. Our network of locations puts our services within your reach. User-friendly digital health tools help you stay connected with your care team. We accept most insurance plans and offer discounted transportation, short-stay options, and international travel and translation services. We help make sense of the details, so you can make decisions that are right for you.
Brain and spine tumor care is accessible and convenient at Stanford Health Care. Our scheduling staff can coordinate your appointments if needed, so that you can see multiple providers during a single trip.
For Referring Physicians
PHYSICIAN HELPLINE
Fax: 650-320-9443
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Stanford Health Care provides comprehensive services to refer and track patients, as well as the latest information and news for physicians and office staff. For help with all referral needs and questions, visit Referral Information.
You may also submit a web referral or complete a referral form and fax it to 650-320-9443 or email the Referral Center at ReferralCenter@stanfordhealthcare.org.
Email or fax a cancer referral form with supporting documentation to ReferralCenter@stanfordhealthcare.org or 650-320-9443.
HOW TO REFER
To refer a patient and schedule an appointment, call either:
- The Cancer Center New Patient Coordinator at 650-736-7440.
- Brain & Spine Tumor Program at 650-497-7777.
To request an appointment with a neurosurgeon, call 650-497-7777.
To request an appointment with a neurologic oncologist or radiation oncologist, call 650-498-6000.