Neurosurgery

The mission of the Department of Neurosurgery is to provide state-of the art care for patients with nervous system tumors through the application of clinical expertise, technology and scientific knowledge. Our vision is to be the premier provider of such care in the region.

Our neurosurgeons have particular interest and expertise in the treatment of nervous system tumors including gliomas, metastatic tumors, meningiomas, pituitary, vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas), skull base, peripheral nerve, spine, and spinal cord tumors. We are trained in utilizing the latest computerized stereotactic guidance systems and intra-operative imaging and monitoring modalities. Our group has special interest in the use of minimally invasive techniques, functional brain mapping, and stereotactic radiation therapy.

We believe that optimum care for patients with malignant brain tumors is only possible through a multidisciplinary approach with active involvement of neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, support staff and social services. Each patient with a brain tumor is presented at our tumor-board and considered for enrollment into a national or an in-house clinical trial in addition
to best available standard therapy.

Our group also collaborates very closely with scientists and clinicians to investigate and apply novel cell-based therapies such as engineered lymphocytes and stem cells in the treatment of brain tumors. Laboratories within the department are also pursuing the development of other immune-based strategies,
such as macrophage and microglia activation, as a possible method for enhancing tumor immune response. Considering that direct drug delivery into the brain may play an important role in future treatment of malignant brain tumors, our group is also investigating and applying catheter-based delivery techniques for such cancers.

California Cancer Specialist neurosurgeons are committed to working with physicians and surgeons within the community in rendering the best cancer care to your patients.

Benham Badie, M.D.
Director, Brain Tumor Program