Surgery and Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy for Bilateral Glioblastomas
This study is investigating a new treatment approach for a very aggressive type of brain tumour called glioblastoma, specifically when it has spread to both sides of the brain (often called 'butterfly glioblastoma'). These tumours are particularly challenging to treat, and patients often have a very limited life expectancy. The study combines traditional open surgery to remove the main part of the tumour with a less invasive laser treatment (LITT) for smaller parts that are harder to reach or on the other side. This approach aims to safely remove more of the tumour, potentially improving survival and quality of life by using a technique that causes less damage to surrounding healthy brain tissue.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about a very serious type of brain tumour called glioblastoma, specifically when it's found on both sides of the brain. Doctors often call these 'butterfly glioblastomas' because of how they can look on scans. These tumours are known to be particularly aggressive and challenging to treat, and unfortunately, patients with them often have a much shorter life expectancy compared to other types of glioblastoma.
While this type of tumour is very serious, there's some early evidence that actively treating it can make a difference. This study is exploring a new way to tackle these tumours that combines two different treatment methods. First, it involves standard surgery to remove the largest part of the tumour. Then, for any smaller parts of the tumour, or those on the other side of the brain, it uses something called Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT).
LITT is a special laser treatment that uses heat to destroy tumour cells. It's a less invasive option than traditional open surgery and has been used successfully for other brain tumours. The hope is that by combining these two approaches – traditional surgery for the main tumour and focused laser treatment for smaller or harder-to-reach areas – more of the tumour can be removed safely, with less risk of damage to the healthy brain. This could potentially help improve the lives of patients facing this very difficult diagnosis.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new treatment for aggressive brain tumours on both sides of the brain.
- It combines traditional surgery with a focused laser treatment (LITT).
- The goal is to safely remove more of the tumour.
- It aims to improve outcomes for a very challenging condition.
- Participation includes surgery, laser therapy, and close monitoring.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, doctors would expect you to have a diagnosis of a glioblastoma tumour that affects both sides of your brain. Also, any smaller part of the tumour that would be treated with the laser therapy must be less than 2.5 centimetres in size. You would need to be generally well and able to carry out your normal daily activities without much difficulty, which doctors describe as a 'performance status' of 0 or 1. Finally, you would need to be able to fully understand the study and agree to take part.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join the study. If the tumour is larger than 2.5 centimetres on both sides of your brain, or if the tumour has grown between your initial surgery and the planned laser treatment, you wouldn't be eligible. Also, if you experience serious problems after initial surgery, such as bleeding in the brain, infection, or a stroke, you wouldn't be able to participate. This study is open to both men and women between the ages of 18 and 80.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- My brain tumour covers both sides of my brain.
- Any smaller part of the tumour (for laser treatment) is less than 2.5cm.
- I'm generally well and can do most daily activities easily.
- I am aged between 18 and 80.
What does participation involve?
If you are eligible and choose to take part in this study, the main treatment involves two steps. First, you will have open surgery to remove as much of the main tumour as possible. After this, if suitable, you will then have a laser treatment (LITT) for any remaining smaller parts of the tumour or those on the other side of your brain. Throughout your participation, your medical team will monitor you closely with regular check-ups and scans to see how you are responding to the treatments. The total duration of your participation would be determined by the ongoing monitoring of your condition and treatment response.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- King's College NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'butterfly glioblastoma'?
It's a very aggressive type of brain tumour that has spread to both sides of the brain, named for its appearance on scans.
What is LITT?
LITT stands for Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy. It's a method that uses a laser to heat and destroy tumour cells in a less invasive way than traditional surgery.
Will I have both surgery and laser treatment?
Yes, if you're in the study, the plan is to combine traditional surgery for the main tumour with LITT for smaller or hard-to-reach parts.
What are the ages for this study?
This study is for adults between 18 and 80 years old.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any point without impacting your medical care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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