Advancements in surgical management of glioblastoma: current trends and promising future directions

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and malignant adult brain tumor. Despite substantial study and surgical advancements, the prognosis remains poor, demanding ongoing research of the current trends and potential surgical therapy. This abstract summarizes GBM surgical developments and future directions. GBM is treated with maximal safe resection, adjuvant radiation, and chemotherapy. Tumor penetration into eloquent brain areas often complicates surgical excision. Functional brain mapping and intraoperative imaging have increase safe resection. Awake craniotomy and intraoperative fluorescence-guided surgery may help remove more tumor. GBM surgery now incorporates molecular and genetic data. Molecular profiling helps discover mutations and genetic changes for tailored treatment. Immunotherapies and targeted therapies have the potential to enhance treatment outcomes for patients diagnosed with GBM. Precision medicine, which involves tailoring cancer treatments to each patient’s unique characteristics, is expected to play a pivotal role in future research endeavors. Nanotechnology and drug delivery devices offer the opportunity to optimize the delivery of anti-tumor drugs, potentially improving their efficacy. Artificial intelligence and machine learning in preoperative planning and intraoperative decision-making should improve surgical results. Current trends in GBM surgery include maximizing safe resection using advanced mapping and imaging techniques, incorporating molecular information for personalized treatment, and investigating targeted therapies and immunotherapies. The future of GBM surgery lies in the integration of precision medicine, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence. By adopting these innovations, the surgical management of GBM may experience significant improvements, leading to better patient outcomes and an increase in life quality.