Experts discuss innovations, care in neuro-oncology

Patna: An academic conference titled “Beyond the blade” was held here on Saturday.Specialists at the conference discussed innovations and comprehensive care in neuro-oncology, with a focus on treatment options for central nervous system tumours beyond conventional surgery.The event featured expert sessions on evolving approaches to diagnosis, treatment planning and supportive care for patients with brain and nervous system tumours.Inaugurating the programme, which was jointly organised by the Society of Oncology and a private hospital, senior neurosurgeon Dr R B Sharma said collective deliberations by specialists on all possible options for a single disease can strengthen decision-making and improve patients’ quality of life.Conference organising secretary and radiation oncologist Dr Amrita Rakesh said the discussions centered on modern treatment planning in neuro-oncology. Topics included molecular diagnostics, advanced imaging, and the appropriate integration of radiation therapy, surgery and medicines. Speakers also addressed the importance of keeping patients and their families mentally positive during treatment, highlighting counselling and communication as key components of care.

Senior oncologist Dr V P Singh, Savera Cancer and Multispeciality Hospital, said surgery is no longer the only pathway for nervous system tumours, noting that treatment can be tailored using different modalities depending on the patient’s condition and tumour characteristics.Medical director of Mahavir Cancer Institute Dr Manisha Singh spoke on targeted therapy for glioma, explaining that it can be more precise than traditional chemotherapy which aims to spare healthy cells while acting on specific tumour pathways.The conference was attended by medical oncology specialists Dr Avinash Pandey and Dr P N Pandit, along with senior cancer specialists, neurosurgeons and pathology experts from the city.