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Falk Brain Tumor Center

Services

Brain Tumor Program

A look at the patients, families and staff inside the world-renowned Falk Brain Tumor Center at Children's Memorial Hospital. Watch video »

This weekly comprehensive program provides families the opportunity to meet with multiple specialists in a single location. This collaborative team approach gives families the chance to ask all the questions they need to in order to fully understand their child's illness and make educated decisions regarding his or her care. 

Brain Tumor Board

Established in 1988, the Board meets weekly to review cases and develop a treatment plan for children whose brain and spine tumors have been newly diagnosed, have recurred, or require a change in therapeutic plan. This includes outside consultations and second opinions.

  • Each week, on average, seven cases are presented and discussed at the brain tumor board conference. Case history, diagnostic images (CT, MRIs), surgical findings and pathology are reviewed individually.
  • Literature review and educational materials are distributed and discussed to support teaching and to assure justification for the team's recommendations.
  • Approximately 30 representatives from various subspecialties attend each week.
  • Representatives from Family Services, including child life specialists and social workers, also attend.

The Second Opinion Program

Children's Memorial brain tumor specialists make their expertise available to anyone seeking a second opinion, regardless of where a patient is currently receiving treatment. Each child's case can be evaluated by the entire brain tumor team to receive an expert second opinion on their current diagnosis and treatment.