Here’s a closer look at who the members of a multi multidisciplinary team are, and how the specialists work together to shape a brain tumour treatment pathway.
A brain tumour diagnosis is a distressing time, and there is a lot of new information to take in. Naturally, you and your loved ones will be anxious to understand what your treatment options are. If you are in the UK, national guidelines recommend that brain tumour patients are treated by a group of specialists known as a multi-disciplinary team (MDT).
Here’s a closer look at who the members of an MDT are, and how they shape a brain tumour treatment pathway.
An MDT consists of healthcare professionals with different specialties who work together to form the best treatment plan for each patient. This ensures that individuals receive personalised care that is uniquely tailored to their needs and wishes, and the treatment plan is formed after input from multiple viewpoints with different areas of expertise.
The MDT will continue to manage your care throughout your treatment and follow up journey. This will ensure a consistent approach, and your progress will be regularly monitored and discussed with the relevant team members, and adjustments will be made if and when they are deemed necessary.
The members of an MDT will typically consist of the following:
A neurologist is a specialist in medical non-surgical abnormalities in the brain and spinal cord, and is often involved in the initial assessment of brain tumour patients, and the ongoing management of tumour-related seizures.
A neurosurgeon will be involved if the tumour is operable, to remove part or all of the tumour.
A clinical or neuro oncologist specialises in the non-surgical management of brain tumours, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy. A medical oncologist may be part of the MDT to deliver chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other types of drug treatments.
A diagnostic radiologist uses imaging technology to create images of the brain that are used to accurately show the size, shape and location of the tumour. A therapeutic radiographer is involved in administering the radiation treatment.
A specialist nurse will be appointed to the team to offer support and advice, and will usually be your first point of contact.
Alongside your brain tumour treatment, your GP will remain involved in your day to day care and will be your first point of contact for health issues that aren’t or do not appear to be related to your brain tumour or treatment.
Depending on the type and severity of your symptoms, and the way they have affected your wellbeing and daily life, you may also work with the following medical staff as part of your treatment:
A neuropsychologist specialises in the rehabilitation of patients with traumatic brain injuries, including damage that may have been caused by a brain tumour or the treatment. They may carry out assessments such as language tests that are designed to identify any difficulties, and work with you to help you manage the changes.
You may also be referred to a psychologist or a clinical psychiatrist to help you deal with mental or emotional problems that have developed as a result of your brain tumour, such as anxiety disorders or depression.
You may be referred to various therapists as part of your rehabilitation process. These include an occupational therapist, who can help you to manage daily activities and if relevant, help you prepare for a return to work. A physiotherapist may be involved with your rehabilitation if you have difficulties with balance or muscle weakness.
If the area of your brain impacted by the tumour has affected your language and speaking skills, or if you have difficulty chewing and swallowing food, then you may be referred to a speech and language therapist. You may also be referred to a dietitian to ensure that your nutritional needs are being met.
The direct involvement of a diverse range of specialists means that better-informed decisions can be made when creating your treatment plan. The team will meet to discuss your diagnosis and treatment options, which leads to better coordination and continuity of care, and higher quality patient outcomes.
Overall, the treatment plan will not just take into account the clinical aspects of your brain tumour, but will take a holistic approach that involves you as a person. You will always have the final say in the type of treatment that you receive, and your team will have your best interests at heart.
If you are interested in finding out more about radiotherapy for brain tumour treatment, please visit our website today.
Centres of Excellence for Stereotactic Radiosurgery treatment of complex Brain Tumours
Want to know more about Gamma Knife Treatment?
Our friendly staff are here to help you, get in touch with them today