Brain Tumor Program
The Pediatric Brain Tumor Program at Monroe Carell is designed for young patients and their families.
Brain tumors in children are rare. This makes it very important for families to seek care at a place like Monroe Carell. Our dedicated team of pediatric neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and nutritionists are experts in treating brain tumors.
At Vanderbilt, we are pioneering new techniques in treating brain tumors. We also recognize the long-term complications this disease can have on children and their families. That's why we use a comprehensive approach in our care. Our team includes a wide variety of specialists, including nurse coordinators, social workers, child life specialists, music therapists, school teachers, and psychologists.
The overall goal is for your child to receive care that will result in a return to normal life patterns as soon as possible. We provide ongoing support including follow-up visits with our team. Our hope is to prevent a tumor's return and minimize complications resulting from the tumor and treatment.
Conditions We Treat
We treat all pediatric brain tumors, including:
- Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT)
Meet Your Care Team
Christopher M. BonfieldMD
- Congenital Malformations of the Brain and Spinal Cord, Craniofacial Surgery, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Disorders, Surgery, Neurological Surgery, Orthopaedics, Pediatric Neurologic Surgery
Michael C. DewanMD
- Brain Tumor/Cancer, Epilepsy, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Disorders, Surgery, Neurological Surgery, Neurosciences, Tumors of the Spine and Spinal Cord
Adam J. EsbenshadeMD, MSCI
- Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, General Hematology and Oncology, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
Robert P. NaftelMD
- Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Hydrocephalus, Movement Disorders, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Surgery, Neurosciences
Devang J. PastakiaMD
- Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, General Hematology and Oncology, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
John C. WellonsIII, MD, MSPH
- Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury, Compression or Tumors, Congenital Malformations of the Brain and Spinal Cord, Neurological Surgery, Neurosciences, Pediatric Neurologic Surgery, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Stroke and Cerebrovascular
Why Choose the Brain Tumor Program at Children's Hospital
- Comprehensive care
We are the only center in Tennessee to offer all subspecialities needed for comprehensive pediatric brain tumor care under one roof.
- Collaborative care
Our team meets regularly for a dedicated pediatric neuro-oncology tumor board. We discuss treatment plans for all brain tumor patients and enable referrals for outside institutions.
- Recognized care
Our program partners with the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, one of an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers and a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
- Partnerships in care
We are members of Children’s Oncology Group, the primary national consortium for treating pediatric brain tumors. We also belong to Beat Childhood Cancer, Southern Pediatric Neurooncology Consortium, and the NEXT consortium.
- Recognized care
U.S. News & World Report has ranked Monroe Carell as one of the best pediatric cancer programs in the nation.
Scarlett's Story
Tests, Treatments and Services
We offer a full range of tests, treatments and services, including:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery