Neuro-Oncology Care in New Jersey
Neuro-oncology is a highly specialized field of medicine that focuses on treating tumors of the brain, spine and nervous system. At RWJBarnabas Health, our neuro-oncology program brings together experts who understand the complex relationship between cancer and the nervous system, providing comprehensive care for both benign and malignant conditions.
Why Choose Us for Neuro-Oncology Care
RWJBarnabas Health, together with Rutgers Cancer Institute, the new Jersey’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, offers exceptional neuro-oncology care that sets us apart. Our program combines advanced treatment options with a deeply personalized approach to patient care.
Our neuro-oncology experts work within dedicated brain tumor and spine specialists, ensuring you receive personalized care from a team that focuses exclusively on neurological cancers and conditions. This focused expertise allows us to offer the most advanced treatments while providing compassionate care that considers your overall well-being.
New Jersey's Largest Network of Neuro-Oncology Specialists
Our integrated care model brings together a comprehensive team of specialists dedicated to treating neurological cancers and conditions. Your care team includes neuro-oncologists who coordinate with neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans. This collaboration ensures you benefit from multiple expert perspectives and the latest advances in care.
Understanding Neuro-Oncology Conditions
Our neuro-oncology program treats a wide range of conditions affecting the nervous system, including:
- Brain tumors that originate in the brain tissue
- Spinal cord tumors affecting the central nervous system
- Metastatic spine tumors and brain metastases that have spread from other parts of the body
- Neurological complications from cancer or cancer treatments
- Rare tumors of the nervous system
Diagnosis and Assessment
Our diagnostic approach combines thorough neurological examinations with advanced imaging and testing. We use state-of-the-art technology including:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) imaging. These provide detailed views of the nervous system.
- Advanced positron emission tomography (PET) scanning. Used to assess tumor activity.
- Specialized neurological function testing. Used to evaluate how conditions affect the nervous system.
State-of-the-Art Treatment Options
Our neuro-oncology program offers comprehensive treatment options tailored to each patient's specific condition, including:
- Advanced surgical techniques. We perform both traditional and minimally invasive neurosurgery, using computer-guided navigation systems for precise tumor removal. Our neurosurgeons specialize in complex procedures while focusing on preserving neurological function.
- Sophisticated radiation therapy. We offer multiple sophisticated radiation options, including Gamma Knife radiosurgery for precise tumor targeting, CyberKnife therapy for difficult-to-reach tumors, and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy for optimal treatment delivery.
- Innovative treatments. Our treatments include targeted therapies designed for specific tumor types, immunotherapy that helps the immune system fight tumors, and traditional chemotherapy when appropriate. We also offer access to promising new treatments through clinical trials.
- Neurological rehabilitation. Our rehabilitation specialists work with you throughout treatment to maintain function and independence. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy and specialized neurological rehabilitation programs.
Clinical Expertise and Research
Our partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute provides our patients with the latest advances in neuro-oncology. Our specialists participate in groundbreaking research and clinical trials, offering access to innovative treatments before they are widely available. This commitment to research means our patients benefit from the most current therapeutic approaches.
Support Throughout Your Neuro-Oncology Journey
The neuro-oncology journey can be complex, which is why we provide comprehensive support services. Our dedicated oncology nurse navigators guide you through every step of your care, coordinating appointments and ensuring you understand your treatment plan. We also offer psychological support, social work services, and connections to support groups that can help you and your family cope with the challenges of treatment.
Let our expert neuro-oncology team help you understand your treatment options.