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Brain tumors can be either benign or malignant. However, even benign tumors can be dangerous due to pressure on vital areas of the brain. The treatment strategy depends on several factors: tumor type, size, location, and stage of progression.

Diagnosis and Biopsy

To identify the tumor type, a biopsy is usually performed. This procedure is carried out using either a stereotactic system or neuronavigation, depending on the case. Neuronavigation is also used during surgeries to ensure maximum precision.

Head of Neurology and Neurosurgery at “Nairi” Medical Center, Arman Hakobyan, states:
“Neuronavigation allows us to precisely determine the path to the tumor during surgery, define its volume, and avoid damage to healthy brain tissue. This is especially crucial in the case of malignant tumors, which are not visually distinguishable from the rest of the brain.”

Surgical Intervention and Neuromonitoring

During surgeries, physicians are supported by neuromonitoring systems that track brain function and help avoid damage to motor or other vital centers.

“If we approach a center responsible for, say, hand or leg movement during surgery, the device allows us to avoid damaging it.”

Radiation and Drug Therapy

Not all brain tumors are operable. In some cases — especially when the tumor is in a hard-to-reach location — drug or radiation therapy is used, even for benign formations. Radiation therapy can also be applied post-surgery to prevent recurrence.

Head of the Radiotherapy Department at “Erebuni” Radiotherapy Center, Sergey Golub, explains:
“Treatment usually includes 25–30 sessions conducted daily, Monday through Friday. The course lasts about one to one and a half months. We use the Varian Halcyon machine, which ensures high precision and effectiveness.”

For benign tumors such as schwannomas, pituitary adenomas, and meningiomas, radiation therapy is not always necessary and may be offered as an alternative to surgery.

Radiosurgery for Metastatic Tumors

When the brain is affected by metastatic tumors from other organs, one of the most advanced methods is used — stereotactic radiosurgery.

Radiation oncologist Stanislav Smolnikov from “Erebuni” Radiotherapy Center notes:
“This method involves the precise delivery of high-dose ionizing radiation. The number of sessions ranges from 1 to 5. Before treatment, we perform tumor mapping, detailed MRI imaging, and dosimetric planning with the participation of medical physicists.”

Radiosurgery is performed on an outpatient basis, lasts 30–40 minutes, and is completely painless. This method is significantly safer than whole-brain radiation.

“Nairi” Medical Center and “Erebuni” Radiotherapy Center are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies — from accurate diagnostics to the most innovative treatment methods. Our specialists provide a comprehensive approach, from biopsy to radiosurgery, ensuring patient safety and improved quality of life.