Sutter Cancer Centers, in partnership with the Sutter Neuroscience Institute, are among the leading facilities in the country using an innovative, minimally invasive approach to treat brain tumors in children and adults. Laser ablation destroys problematic brain tissue in seconds, without requiring open surgery. Instead, surgeons use sophisticated brain imaging to pinpoint the exact location of a brain tumor. They then insert a tiny laser, about the size of a pencil lead, through a small hole in the skull. They place the laser into the problematic tissue, confirm its location and turn it on. Within seconds, the laser heats up the tumor tissue to destroy it.
Though laser-ablation surgery requires specialized equipment, highly trained surgeons and digital imaging specialists, patients experience a quick and easy process with a fast recovery.
