03 December 2023 - 05 December 2023

Brussels, Belgium

Onsite/Online

 

COURSE DIRECTORS

Sarah Jefferies, Clinical Oncologist, Addenbrooke’s Hospital - Oncology Centre, Cambridge (UK) 

Gianfranco Pesce, Clinical Oncologist, Radiation Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale S.Giovanni, Bellinzona (CH)

 

My name is Michał Czerwiński. I am a medical physicist, resident in Radiation oncology in Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Poland. From 2-4.12.2024 I had the opportunity to attend the ESTRO Course „Multidisciplinary treatment of brain tumours” in Brussels, Belgium.

The most important factor of this course was its multidisciplinary approach. It emphasised the importance of a multidisciplinary team comprising neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists and other specialists in providing comprehensive care to brain tumour patients. Various treatment modalities, were shown, which made us think outside of our field of treatment.

A significant focus was placed on the holistic care and supportive treatment. Quite often there are no clear guidelines that we can follow, so being able to learn from the experience of great authorities in the field of neurooncology was truly valuable. Teachers were very open to answer our questions and to give their perspective on some of the problems we face in our everyday practice.

Engaging case studies and interactive discussions allowed us to imply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios.

We were also updated on the latest advancements in primary and metastatic brain tumour diagnosis and treatment, including cutting-edge technologies and innovative clinical trials.

For me, one of the biggest advantages was the exchange of experiences with great authorities and delegates from all over the world. Through sharing diverse insights and case-based discussions delegates could broaden their perspectives and improve their problem-solving skills in everyday clinical practice.

I need to emphasise an excellent organisation. The course was hybrid, with on-site one online participants and everyone had a chance to engage in discussion.

In conclusion, the course on multidisciplinary treatment of brain tumours was a comprehensive and enriching experience that provided delegates with a deepened understanding of the complexities that are involved in treating primary and metastatic brain tumours, and tools with which they could deliver optimal care to their patients. I was very happy to share what I had learned with my colleagues back in Warsaw.It was my first ESTRO course, but certainly not my last.

Michał Czerwinski

Department of Radiation Oncology

Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland

michal-czerwinski@outlook.com