Topic Editors

Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy

Innovations in Brain Tumor Surgery: Techniques and Outcomes

Abstract submission deadline
30 April 2026
Manuscript submission deadline
30 June 2026
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1456

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Brain tumors represent a diverse and challenging category of diseases that require specialized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Advancements in imaging, surgery, radiation therapy, and drug development are improving outcomes for many patients. However, the prognoses remain largely dependent on the tumor type and stage, and continued research is crucial for developing more effective treatments. This Topic focuses on the latest advancements in the field of brain tumor surgery, highlighting groundbreaking techniques and their impact on patient outcomes. As brain tumor treatments continue to evolve, a key focus of the issue is the role of innovative technologies in improving the precision, safety, and efficacy of surgical interventions. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Advances in Preoperative Planning and Imaging;
  • Cutting-Edge Intraoperative Technologies;
  • Personalized Surgical Approaches;
  • Postoperative Advancements;
  • Clinical Outcomes and Future Directions.

We encourage submissions of original research articles, reviews, and clinical studies that present important developments in brain tumor surgery, leading to more precise, effective, and less invasive treatments. The ongoing development and integration of new tools and techniques will continue to enhance our ability to treat complex brain tumors, ultimately improving patient outcomes and survival rates.

Prof. Dr. Maria Caffo
Dr. Teresa Somma
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • neuro-oncology
  • brain tumor
  • drug delivery
  • glioma
  • target therapy

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Brain Sciences
brainsci
2.8 5.6 2011 16.2 Days CHF 2200 Submit
Cancers
cancers
4.4 8.8 2009 20.3 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Journal of Clinical Medicine
jcm
2.9 5.2 2012 17.7 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Neurology International
neurolint
3.0 4.8 2009 21.4 Days CHF 1800 Submit
Diagnostics
diagnostics
3.3 5.9 2011 21 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Therapeutics
therapeutics
- - 2024 15.0 days * CHF 1000 Submit
Current Oncology
curroncol
3.4 4.9 1994 21.5 Days CHF 2200 Submit

* Median value for all MDPI journals in the first half of 2025.


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Published Papers (2 papers)

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20 pages, 5431 KB  
Article
Predicting the Consistency of Vestibular Schwannoma and Its Implication in the Retrosigmoid Approach: A Single-Center Analysis
by Raffaele De Marco, Giovanni Morana, Silvia Sgambetterra, Federica Penner, Antonio Melcarne, Diego Garbossa, Michele Lanotte, Roberto Albera and Francesco Zenga
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110647 - 19 Nov 2025
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Abstract
To explore the relationship between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters, including T2-weighted intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and intraoperative tumor characteristics, particularly consistency, in vestibular schwannomas (VSs). The association between tumor consistency, facial nerve (FN) function, and postoperative outcomes was analyzed. A [...] Read more.
To explore the relationship between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters, including T2-weighted intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and intraoperative tumor characteristics, particularly consistency, in vestibular schwannomas (VSs). The association between tumor consistency, facial nerve (FN) function, and postoperative outcomes was analyzed. A single-center retrospective analysis included newly diagnosed VS cases (2020–2023) with cisternal involvement (Samii T3a; volume ≥ 0.7 cm3). T2 and ADC maps from the perimetral region of interest were normalized, and tumors were categorized into 3 classes by combining qualitative consistency (soft, fibrous, or fibrous/hard), ultrasonic aspirator power, and adherence to neurovascular structures. FN function was assessed using the House–Brackmann scale at the immediate postoperative period and 12-month follow-up. MRIs of 33 VSs (18 solid and 15 cystic) were analyzed. Normalized values of both T2 (N-T2mean) and ADC (N-ADCmin) maps predicted the classical radiological differentiation. N-ADCmin may have some role in predicting consistency (value 1.361, p = 0.017, accuracy 0.48) and demonstrated a significant association (p = 0.04) with the FN outcome in the immediate postoperative period. An augmented consistency could impair FN function by increasing the intrameatal pressure related to greater transmission of shocks derived from the dissection maneuvers of the cisternal component of the tumor. The possibility of non-invasively exploring VS consistency with a parameter easily calculable on MRI might be beneficial in surgical planning, modifying the timing of the opening of the meatus with respect to what could be the surgical routine in some centers. Full article
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24 pages, 1035 KB  
Systematic Review
Metabolic Imaging as Future Technology and Innovation in Brain-Tumour Surgery: A Systematic Review
by Thomas Kapapa, Ralph König, Jan Coburger, Benjamin Mayer, Kornelia Kreiser and Volker Rasche
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110597 - 24 Oct 2025
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Abstract
Background: Standard imaging in neurosurgery often fails to visualize infiltrative tumor regions that extend beyond contrast enhancement. Metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized 13C-MRI may offer new intraoperative insights into tumor biology. Objective: To systematically assess the clinical and technical evidence on hyperpolarized MRI for [...] Read more.
Background: Standard imaging in neurosurgery often fails to visualize infiltrative tumor regions that extend beyond contrast enhancement. Metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized 13C-MRI may offer new intraoperative insights into tumor biology. Objective: To systematically assess the clinical and technical evidence on hyperpolarized MRI for metabolic tumour characterization in patients with malignant brain tumors. Eligibility criteria: We included original human studies reporting on hyperpolarized 13C-MRI for perioperative and diagnostic use in brain tumor patients. Reviews, animal studies, and technical-only reports were excluded. Information sources: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science on 26 December 2024. Risk of bias: Methodological quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Synthesis of results: A qualitative synthesis was performed, and where feasible, random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) and heterogeneity statistics. Results: Three studies (n = 15 patients) met inclusion criteria. The bicarbonate-to-pyruvate ratio showed a significant difference between tumor and non-tumour brain (SMD = 1.34, p = 0.002), whereas pyruvate-to-lactate ratio (kPL) values showed minimal difference (SMD = 0.06, p = 0.730). Asmall effect was observed for kPL between tumor and normal-appearing white matter (SMD = –0.33). One study provided qualitative data only. Overall heterogeneity was high (I2 = 69.4%). Limitations: Limitations include small sample sizes, heterogeneous methodologies, and limited availability of patient-level data. Interpretation: Hyperpolarized 13C-MRI shows metabolic differentiation between tumor and healthy tissue in certain parameters, especially bicarbonate metabolism. While promising, the technology requires further clinical validation before routine intraoperative application. Full article
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