Targeted Brain Cancer Treatment: Advanced Proton Therapy
At Maryland Proton Treatment Center (MPTC), we provide advanced brain cancer treatment using highly targeted proton therapy.
This non-invasive radiation approach delivers precision care while protecting critical brain functions. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or exploring brain cancer treatment options, we’re here to help.
The Advantages of Proton Therapy for Brain Cancer
Proton therapy offers unique benefits for treating brain tumors, including:
- Protects healthy brain tissue and critical structures.
- Reduces cognitive side effects such as memory loss and fatigue.
- Minimizes risk of seizures and neurological changes.
- Targets deep or hard-to-reach tumors with sub-millimeter accuracy.
- Supports better quality of life during and after treatment.
Why Choose MPTC for Your Brain Tumor Treatment?
Patients and families choose MPTC for our specialized expertise and supportive environment. Here you can expect:
- Cost-neutral care: Most pay the same or less than conventional radiation. Learn about coverage options and cost now.
- Over 6,000 patients treated: The most experienced team in the region.
- 92% insurance approval rate: We work closely with providers to support approvals.
- Advanced technology: Access to pencil beam scanning and clinical trials.
- Compassionate, personalized care: Support from consultation through recovery.
What Types of Brain Cancer Can Be Treated with Proton Therapy?
We use proton therapy for a wide range of brain tumors and central nervous system conditions, including:
- Oligodendrogliomas: Slow-growing tumors that affect the brain’s supportive tissue.
- Medulloblastomas: Fast-growing tumors that typically develop in children but can also occur in adults.
- Ependymomas: Tumors that form in the lining of the brain’s ventricles.
- Craniopharyngiomas: Rare tumors near the pituitary gland that can affect vision and hormone function.
- Low-grade, high-grade, and recurrent gliomas: Tumors that originate in the glial cells that support nerve function.
- Meningiomas: Tumors that develop in the protective membranes surrounding the brain.
- Pineal and Pituitary Tumors: Tumors affecting hormone regulation and brain function.
- Tumors of the Base of the Skull: Complex tumors at the skull base are often near critical structures.
- Vascular Malformations: Abnormal blood vessel formations that can lead to neurological complications.
- Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the brain that may cause bleeding or seizures.
These tumors often sit near areas that control speech, movement, or memory, making proton therapy a safer, more targeted option.
Is Proton Therapy Right for Your Brain Tumor?
Proton therapy may be an idea treatment option if:
- Your tumor is located near critical brain structures.
- You want to reduce long-term cognitive risks.
- You need re-irradiation for a recurrent tumor.
Our radiation oncology experts will evaluate your diagnosis to determine the best brain cancer treatment approach.
Understanding the Proton Therapy Treatment Process
At the Maryland Proton Treatment Center, every brain cancer treatment plan is customized to your unique diagnosis and health needs. We aim to deliver highly targeted care while supporting your comfort and well-being.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, you will meet with our expert team, including a radiation oncologist, to review your medical history and determine if proton therapy is right for you. Our radiation oncologists are trained to deliver radiation in a variety of modalities, which means they can discuss all radiation options to ensure you are comfortable with your care plan. If proton therapy is right for you, our billing department will help find out if your insurance covers proton therapy.
CT Simulation and Treatment Planning: We use advanced imaging to map your tumor and design a precise, personalized plan. These scans help us prepare your body position to ensure accurate proton therapy treatment.
Daily Treatment: Proton therapy begins within two weeks of the simulation. These outpatient sessions are typically 30 minutes, five days a week, with most patients returning to daily activities right after. The length of treatment depends on your specific treatment plan but generally lasts three to eight weeks.
Completion: Upon completing your last treatment, you will ring the bell at the “Ring in Hope” wall, a symbol that closes the door on this chapter of life and opens the door to a healthy future.
Follow-Up and Ongoing Monitoring: Within a month of your final treatment, you will come back for a follow-up visit to track your progress. Following that, imaging and regular check-ins help us further track your progress and make any needed adjustments.
