If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, you may be learning about many different treatment options. One newer option being used after brain tumor surgery is called GammaTile Therapy—a way to deliver radiation directly where it’s needed most.
What is GammaTile Therapy?
GammaTile Therapy is a type of targeted radiation treatment placed directly inside the brain during surgery. It uses small, tile-like implants that go where the tumor was removed. These tiles release a steady dose of radiation to help kill any leftover cancer cells.
Here’s how it works:
- After your surgeon removes the tumor, they place tiny collagen tiles (about the size of a postage stamp) in the area where the tumor was.
- Each tile contains a small radioactive seed (cesium-131).
- These seeds release radiation over time—right at the source, without harming healthy parts of the brain.
- The radiation fades naturally after a few weeks.
Why Do Doctors Use GammaTile?
GammaTile Therapy is designed to:
- Start working immediately after surgery
- Deliver radiation exactly where it’s needed
- Reduce the risk of the tumor coming back
- Lower the chance of side effects compared to traditional external radiation
Who Might Be a Candidate?
Your doctor may consider GammaTile if you:
- Have had a recurrent or hard-to-treat tumor
- Are having surgery to remove a tumor
- Have a tumor where additional external radiation may not be safe
Types of tumors GammaTile is used for include:
- Glioblastoma
- Meningioma
- Brain metastases (tumors that spread from other cancers)
- Other primary brain tumors
What Are the Benefits?
- Radiation starts right away—no need to wait weeks after surgery
- Fewer trips to the hospital for daily radiation sessions
- May lead to fewer side effects, like fatigue or memory problems
- No extra procedures—the treatment is placed during your surgery
What Should I Ask My Doctor?
If you’re wondering whether GammaTile could be right for you, here are some helpful questions to bring to your next appointment:
Understanding the Treatment
- Is GammaTile a good option for my type of brain tumor?
- How does it compare to traditional radiation?
Safety and Side Effects
- Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
- Will the radiation affect people around me?
What to Expect After Surgery
- How long does the radiation last?
- What follow-up care will I need?
- Will I still need other treatments, like chemotherapy or external radiation?
GammaTile Therapy offers new hope for patients facing tough brain tumor diagnoses. While it’s not right for everyone, it may be an option worth exploring—especially if you’re having surgery and want to reduce the chances of the tumor returning.
Be sure to talk with your care team to understand all your options. And remember, you are not alone—Brains for the Cure is here to help you navigate each step of your journey with trusted information and support.