NCOG-67. QUANTIFYING THE UTILITY OF A MULTIDISCIPLINARY NEURO-ONCOLOGY TUMOR BOARD

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND There is limited research attempting to measure the efficacy of tumor boards (MDTBs) in the treatment of patients with tumors affecting the nervous system. OBJECTIVE The objective of the present study was to quantify the utility of a MDTB in providing alternative diagnostic interpretations and treatment plans for this patient population. METHODS A prospective study of patient cases discussed at four hospitals’ MDTBs between July and November 2019 was performed. Demographic data, diagnoses, treatment plans, and eligibility for clinical trials were recorded, among other variables. RESULTS A total of 176 patient cases met eligibility criteria. The majority of patients (53%) were male with a mean age of 52 years. The most frequent diagnosis was glioblastoma (32.4%). Among the evaluable cases, MDTBs led to 38 (21.6%) changes in image interpretation and 103 (58.2%) changes in patient management. Additionally, patients whose cases were discussed at MDTBs had significantly shorter referral times compared to patients whose cases were not discussed (p= 0.024). CONCLUSION MDTB discussions led to a significant number of diagnostic and treatment plan changes as well as shortened referral times, highlighting the potential clinical impact of multidisciplinary care for patients with nervous system tumors.