Developing the next generation of neurosurgeons

To that end, the BATRI provides funds for training and professional development opportunities, so that clinicians can bring best practice to their patients.

As part of this commitment, Cancer Research Wales was delighted last week to support a Supra-Regional Neuro-Oncology Training Day, organised by Cardiff & Vale University Health Board.

Neurosurgeons are specialist surgeons who train for many years to operate on the delicate structures of the brain. 

The training day was aimed at providing trainee neurosurgeons with the latest information and best practice in neuro-oncology.

Advances in brain cancer treatment 

Neuro-oncology, the study of cancers in the brain, is a fascinating and complex topic that draws in expertise from diverse fields including radiology, surgery and genomics.

Having a strong knowledge of the interplay between these different areas is vital to planning and conducting the best surgery, which removes as much cancer as possible while minimising damage to the patient’s brain.

Our understanding of brain cancers has improved significantly over the last 20 years and this has led to the classification of many new distinct tumour types. 

The study of genomics and epigenetics (non-genetic changes that affect whether a gene is switched on or off) has enabled clinicians to gain increasingly detailed pictures of specific cancers and the treatments that may work best for them.

The latest updates on the classification of brain tumours constituted the opening session of the Training Day, setting the scene for the rest of the specialist talks.

Supra-Regional Neuro-Oncology Training Day

Throughout the day, there were in depth and informative talks about a range of topics, covering both the diagnosis and treatment of brain cancers.

Regarding diagnosis, the trainees were given presentations on methods for classifying tumours, from traditional histopathology through to molecular and genetic testing, and the interpretation of MRI scans and other imaging techniques to gain the most complete picture of an individual patient’s unique tumour.

Other talks focused on best practice in neurosurgery and the increasing variety of tools and methods at surgeons’ disposal.

From radiotherapy and novel drugs that target specific weaknesses in cancer cells, to live ultrasound imaging and cancer-staining dyes, the advances in this field have great potential and the pace of development is impressive.

There was also a session on cancers that have spread to the brain from their original site, which occur in an estimated 20-40% of patients with metastatic disease and require a tailored approach.

The unique challenges posed by these tumours really emphasise just how difficult the job of a neurosurgeon can be.

To round off the event, a number of real-life cases were presented with the trainees tasked with correctly diagnosing the cancer and creating a treatment plan.

Thanks to the input of the expert panel of experienced surgeons from Cardiff, Bristol and Oxford, this session was particularly valuable in preparing the trainees for challenges they will face on a regular basis.

Bridging Research and Practice

Overall, the Supra-Regional Neuro-Oncology Training Day was a great example of the education and professional development aspect of the Cancer Research Wales BATRI.

The advancements and cutting-edge methodologies described are the result of many years of research and innovation, showcasing the power of research and its implementation into practice.

By upskilling the next generation of Welsh neurosurgeons and equipping them with the latest knowledge, we can help to ensure future brain tumour patients in Wales receive the best possible care.