Post op MRI confirmed subtotal resection

Understanding Your Subtotal Resection Result

I'm glad you have clarity from your post-operative MRI. Let me explain what this means and what typically comes next.

What Subtotal Resection Means

A subtotal resection means your surgical team removed most of the tumor, but some tumor tissue remained. This is different from:

• Gross total resection (complete removal)
• Partial resection (less tumor removed)

Subtotal resection is often the safest option when removing all the tumor would risk damaging critical brain structures or nerves.

What Happens Next

According to NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) Guidelines, the next steps typically depend on your specific cancer type and location. Common follow-up treatments may include:

• Radiation therapy - to target remaining tumor cells
• Chemotherapy - systemic treatment to reach cancer cells throughout your body
• Observation with close monitoring - for some slower-growing tumors
• Additional surgery - in some cases, after other treatments shrink the remaining tumor

Important Next Steps

1. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgical team to discuss the MRI results

2. Ask your oncologist about your specific treatment plan based on:

   • Tumor type and grade
   • Location of remaining tumor
   • Your overall health
   • Molecular testing results (if available)

3. Request a multidisciplinary team meeting if you haven't had one—this brings together surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists to plan your care

Questions to Ask Your Team

• What is the tumor grade and type?
• Why was complete removal not possible?
• What are the recommended next treatments?
• What are the goals of additional treatment?

Would you like help understanding a specific next treatment option, or do you have questions about your tumor type? I'm here to help you navigate this information.