Glial Tumor Treatment Process

Glial tumors (gliomas) are brain tumors that develop from supporting cells in the brain and spinal cord called glial cells. These tumors can be benign or malignant. They may interfere with the normal functioning of neurons and cause various neurological symptoms by creating pressure in vital areas of the brain.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that the treatment of glial tumors should not rely on a single method but must be carried out with a patient-specific and multidisciplinary approach. This is because every glial tumor behaves differently depending on its cellular structure, growth rate, and location within the brain.

Treatment Planning in Glial Tumors

Before starting treatment, the type of tumor, its grade, location, and the patient’s overall health condition are evaluated. During this stage, a multidisciplinary team works together, including a neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, neurologist, and pathologist.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that personalizing the treatment plan for each patient significantly increases the success rate. For example, in a slow-growing low-grade glioma, surgery alone may be sufficient, while fast-growing high-grade tumors often require additional treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Diagnosis and Preparation Stage

The first step in the treatment process is making an accurate diagnosis. After determining the type and stage of the glial tumor, the most appropriate treatment plan is created.

Diagnostic Methods Used

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Determines the location and size of the tumor.
• MR Spectroscopy: Shows metabolic changes at the cellular level.
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken to make a definitive diagnosis.
• Genetic Tests: Genetic markers such as IDH mutation and MGMT methylation play an important role in treatment planning.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that genetic analyses are extremely valuable for predicting the course of the disease and the response to treatment.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical intervention is the cornerstone of glial tumor treatment. The main goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging critical brain functions.

With modern neurosurgical technologies such as microscopic surgery, neuronavigation, and intraoperative mapping systems, tumor tissue can be distinguished with millimetric precision.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that the purpose of surgery is not only to remove the tumor but also to preserve the patient’s neurological functions.

Surgical Process

• Preparation: Detailed MRI planning is performed before surgery.
• Surgical Access: The surgeon reaches the tumor using a technique specific to its location.
• Tumor Removal: The tumor is removed carefully under a surgical microscope without damaging nerve tissues.
• Control: In some cases, intraoperative MRI may be used to check for any remaining tumor tissue.

In low-grade gliomas, additional treatment may not be required after surgery. However, in high-grade gliomas, further treatments are usually necessary.

Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)

Radiotherapy aims to destroy microscopic tumor cells that may remain after surgery. This treatment is especially necessary in high-grade gliomas (Grade III–IV).

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains that modern radiotherapy techniques allow the radiation to target tumor tissue more precisely while minimizing damage to healthy brain tissue.

Types of Radiotherapy

Conventional Radiotherapy: Low doses of radiation are given daily to the tumor area.
Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT): Radiation beams are shaped and focused specifically on the tumor.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (Gamma Knife / CyberKnife): A high dose of radiation is delivered in a single session and is often used for small and well-defined tumors.

Radiotherapy treatment typically lasts 4–6 weeks and is administered five days per week.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is commonly used in the treatment of malignant glial tumors, often in combination with or following radiotherapy. These drugs circulate in the bloodstream and prevent tumor cells from multiplying.

The most commonly used drug is temozolomide (Temodal). This medication works by damaging the DNA structure of tumor cells and stopping their growth.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that chemotherapy given simultaneously with radiotherapy can extend survival and reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

Chemotherapy is usually administered in cycles, such as 5 days of medication followed by 23 days of rest, and the treatment may continue for several months.

Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy

In recent years, advances in genetic profiling have enabled the use of targeted therapies for glial tumors. These treatments specifically target abnormal proteins found in tumor cells.

Immunotherapy is another promising approach that activates the immune system to fight tumor cells.

According to Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, these innovative therapies have shown encouraging results, particularly in recurrent glioma cases.

These treatments are personalized and selected based on the patient’s genetic test results.

Rehabilitation and Post-Treatment Process

After the completion of treatment, rehabilitation plays an important role in improving the patient’s quality of life and strengthening neurological functions.

Rehabilitation programs may include physical therapy, speech therapy, psychological support, and nutritional planning.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı highlights that after surgery the brain undergoes a period of adaptation, and patients gradually return to their daily and social lives.

Goals of Rehabilitation

• Maintaining muscle strength and balance
• Supporting speech and memory functions
• Improving psychological resilience
• Facilitating the return to daily activities

Rehabilitation is a natural continuation of medical treatment and directly contributes to overall recovery.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Regular follow-up is essential after treatment to detect any recurrence of the tumor at an early stage.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı summarizes the follow-up protocol as follows:

• First 2 years: Brain MRI every 3 months
• Later period: Follow-up every 6 months
• Additional blood tests and neurological examinations if necessary

If the tumor shows signs of regrowth, a second surgery or different treatment combinations may be considered.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Recommendations

Proper nutrition is important during the treatment process as it strengthens the immune system and helps the body adapt to therapy.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı recommends a balanced diet rich in natural and antioxidant-containing foods.

Recommended Dietary Principles

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Omega-3 sources such as olive oil, walnuts, and fish
• Avoiding refined sugar and processed foods
• Adequate water intake
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol

Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management are also important lifestyle factors that support treatment success.

Psychological Support and the Role of Family

A brain tumor diagnosis can create significant psychological stress for patients. Family support and professional psychological help are essential parts of the treatment process.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that the patient’s morale and motivation directly influence the response to treatment. Therefore, having a supportive family and a strong support system is extremely valuable.

Future Approaches in Glial Tumor Treatment

Medical science continues to make progress in the treatment of gliomas. Research is ongoing on genetic-based drugs, cellular therapies, and even brain tumor vaccines.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı predicts that in the future, glial tumor treatment will become fully personalized and that genetic targeting will further extend patient survival.

The treatment process of glial tumors is complex and requires patience. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and rehabilitation should be applied together as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Personalized treatment planning at every stage significantly improves the success rate.

As a specialist in neurosurgery, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that early diagnosis, accurate surgical planning, and a multidisciplinary approach are the most effective factors in extending survival in glial tumor patients.

Early diagnosis, a well-planned treatment strategy, and strong patient motivation remain the most powerful tools in managing this challenging disease.