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How do you determine the timeline for healing after craniotomy prior to starting chemotherapy and radiation?

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What is your typical goal timeline after craniotomy to begin postoperative radiation?

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4 Answers
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Radiation Oncology · UMass Memorial Medical Group
Answered on

I typically wait at least 10-14 days post-op, always after neurosurgery has re-evaluated the craniotomy site for appropriate healing and has already removed staples or sutures.

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Radiation Oncology · University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Answered on

For me, it depends on the type of tumor.

I am aggressive with grade 4 gliomas simulating at 2 weeks post-op (after staples removed) to turn the beams on at 3 unless there is a definite contraindication to proceeding (e.g., wound dehiscence, CSF leak, or infection). Over the years, I've seen several ...

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Radiation Oncology · University of Arizona
Answered on

I agree with the answer by Dr. @Dr. First Last. I schedule the SIM after they have been cleared by the neurosurgeon (usually 10-14 days after surgery, and then aim to start chemoRT within 1-2 weeks. I also see the patient on day 1 of RT to ensure that there is indeed good healing.

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Radiation Oncology · Beaumont Hospital
Answered on

Very nice response to this question. I never worry about the skin because, as everybody is aware, with the keloid treatment the day of surgery, however, the healing of the bone is a different subject, and I also rely on the neurosurgeon to determine when he feels it’s appropriate for us to begin rad...

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