Radiation Therapy for Brain Cancer

(GK-LIVE Trial)

This trial aims to test a new approach for treating large brain tumors using a combination of two radiation machines. Patients will begin with four treatments using a linear accelerator, take a short break, and then receive a final treatment with a Gamma Knife. This method aims to improve tumor control and reduce side effects, such as swelling in healthy brain tissue. Individuals with up to two large brain lesions or up to ten smaller brain tumors that have not responded to treatment might be suitable candidates. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.

The trial requires that you stop taking systemic cancer chemotherapy or immunotherapy at least 2 days before and after each radiation treatment session. Other medications are not specifically mentioned, so you should discuss your current medications with the study doctors.

Research has shown that both the Gamma Knife and linear accelerator are safe and effective for treating brain tumors. Studies have found that they control tumors in over 90% of cases, effectively keeping tumors in check. Importantly, they also help protect healthy brain tissue.

The Gamma Knife and linear accelerator are generally well-tolerated regarding side effects. While side effects like radiation necrosis can occur, they are uncommon. This condition involves swelling and damage to healthy tissue, but the precision of these machines helps reduce this risk.

Researchers are excited about the combined Gamma Knife/Linac radiosurgery for brain cancer because it offers a unique approach to targeting tumors. Unlike traditional brain cancer treatments, such as whole-brain radiation therapy or conventional surgery, this treatment uses highly focused beams of radiation to precisely target cancer cells, sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This precision can potentially lead to fewer side effects and improved quality of life for patients. Additionally, the combination of Gamma Knife and Linac allows for enhanced flexibility and adaptability in treatment planning, which may improve overall outcomes.

Research has shown that using both Gamma Knife and linear accelerator radiosurgery for brain tumors can be very effective. In this trial, participants will receive Combined Gamma Knife/Linac Radiosurgery. Studies have found that staged Gamma Knife radiosurgery for large brain tumors controls the tumor in 83% of cases after 12 months. The Gamma Knife delivers precise radiation, protecting healthy brain tissue. The linear accelerator, when used in multiple treatments, effectively manages larger tumors. Combining these methods may offer better tumor control and fewer side effects than using just the linear accelerator. This approach aims to improve results by targeting tumors more precisely while protecting healthy tissue.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰