Franciscan Health Indianapolis offers a multidisciplinary approach to treating both malignant and benign brain tumors. Our team approach ensures that every patient benefits from a personalized, coordinated and compassionate treatment plan that includes experts across many specialties.

Our one-of-a-kind program offers:

Advanced imaging to diagnose and evaluate brain tumors
Fellowship-trained neurosurgeons
One of Indiana’s only brain tumor nurse navigator programs
Multidisciplinary team including specialists in neurosurgery, radiation oncology, medical oncology, radiology and rehabilitation services
Specialty-specific tumor boards to discuss comprehensive care of patients
Comprehensive care management to maximize outcomes and overall quality of life for patients and their families
Rehabilitation services, including specialists in neurological rehabilitation
Research and clinical trials
For malignant brain tumors: radiation therapy, medical oncology, and cancer survivorship program

Treating Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are classified as primary, meaning it began in the brain; or secondary (metastatic), meaning a cancer spread from another part of the body. A brain tumor specialist should evaluate any patient who receives a brain tumor diagnosis. Treatment options vary and will be tailored by your specialist using an array of advanced approaches.

Size of the tumor, spread, location, or diagnosis of a malignancy may require additional treatment beyond surgery. Our comprehensive program includes Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy when required.

As one of only a few programs in Indiana with a brain tumor nurse navigator, our goal is to coordinate patient encounters, so the focus can remain on healing.

Our patients and physicians work with the brain tumor nurse navigators, who add a personal touch to the process by guiding patients on a one-on-one basis from diagnosis to treatment. The navigators serve as the point person for the brain tumor team and will review the patient’s history, collaborate with the physicians, and organize appointments based on each patient’s needs and treatment recommendations.

We understand that being diagnosed with a brain tumor is overwhelming and leads to a lot of questions. New patients with malignant brain tumors will be prioritized with expedited appointments.

To schedule an appointment or contact a brain tumor nurse navigator, call 317-528-1002.