Neuro-Oncology Program of Excellence

Introduction

Malignant Brain Tumors are the 5th most common disease site for patients treated by the University of Colorado Cancer Center.  Patients trust the University Hospital system, for good reason. 

The Brain Tumor Program at University of Colorado Hospital cares for the largest number of patients with brain tumors in the state of Colorado. 

At UCH, we take a team-based approach to care, involving neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuropathologists, radiation oncologists, neuropsychologists, neuro-intensivists, research coordinators, and a brain tumor support group to enhance the physical and emotional wellbeing of patients diagnosed with brain tumors. 

Neurosurgeons in our Neuro-Oncology Program

The University of Colorado Neuro-Oncology Program is part of the larger Multi-Disciplinary Cancer Center at the Anschutz Medical Campus. 

Here are a few of the many clinical professionals we work with:

More information about the specifics offered in our Neuro-Oncology Program

We offer:

• The only  National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the Rocky Mountain region (and one of only 49 in the US).
• Highly coordinated inter-disciplinary care, including a weekly multidisciplinary tumor board (NeuStrategy Cranial Tumor Gold Status Center of Excellence).
• The only neuro-specific intensive care unit in the Rocky Mountain region (24 beds), with 24-hour coverage by fellowship-trained neuro-intensivists and neuro-specific nursing care.
• The Rocky Mountain Gamma Knife Center, which has treated over 5000 brain lesions since 1993.
• A comprehensive electronic medical record, allowing a secure environment for documenting and coordinating patient care.
• Fellowship trained, nationally recognized neurosurgery faculty focused in neurosurgical oncology and skull base neurosurgery.
• The largest participation in national and regional clinical brain tumor research in the Rocky Mountain region, with excellent coordination between clinical and research personnel.
• Intraoperative MRI scanner, improving the safety and success of surgical resections.
• Minimally invasive cranial endoscopy and microscopy for improved outcomes despite smaller incisions.
• Stereotactic intraoperative neuronavigation with Medtronic Stealth and BrainLab.
• High-definition 3T MRI scanning capability, including functional MRI, MR spectroscopy, and diffusion tensor tractography.
• Over 30 years of experience performing awake craniotomies with neuronavigation and intra-operative neurophysiology to preserve neurological function in patients with tumors in eloquent areas.
• Two of only three fellowship-trained neuro-oncologists in Colorado.
• A regional 2nd opinion center for Neuropathology, including access to tumor biomarkers only offered here for the entire region.
• Private rooms for every patient in a new, state-of-the art inpatient facility.
• Well-coordinated regional care program for patients who desire adjuvant treatment closer to home, with interaction with a number of hospitals and clinics throughout the Rocky Mountain region.
• A Brain Tumor Support Group that meets monthly to offer support to patients and their families.

While our patient volume gives us the experience to provide excellent care to our brain tumor patients, our personalized and well-coordinated approach gives every patient and their family superb individual attention.  Come and experience the University of Colorado Hospital Brain Tumor Program difference, and see why it is one of the most effective and experienced brain tumor programs in the country.