How important is it to remove all of the brain tumor?
In the case of high-grade tumors such as Grade III or Grade IV astrocytoma (glioblastoma) or high-grade oligodendrogliomas, surgical removal is crucial. Removal of more than 90% increases the chance for long-term survival. Certain centers are better equipped with the technology, philosophy and expertise to achieve this goal. In my practice, we do everything possible to achieve a complete response in which there is no tumor detectable by MRI scan. If we can achieve this using combined surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and biological therapy, we have a chance to cure the patient.
