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Quantifying the utility of a multidisciplinary neuro-oncology tumor board
Adham M Khalafallah1, Adrian E Jimenez1, Carlos G Romo2,3
11Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore.
Objective:
There has been limited research on the efficacy of multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) in improving the treatment of patients with tumors affecting the nervous system. The objective of the present study was to quantify the utility of MDTBs in providing alternative diagnostic interpretations and treatment plans for this patient population.
Methods:
The authors performed a prospective study of patients in 4 hospitals whose cases were discussed at MDTBs between July and November 2019. Patient demographic data, diagnoses, treatment plans, and eligibility for clinical trials were recorded, among other variables.
Results:
A total of 176 cases met eligibility criteria for study inclusion. The majority (53%) of patients were male, and the mean patient age was 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 than patients whose cases were not discussed (p = 0.024).
Conclusions:
MDTB discussions led to significant numbers 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.
Insights
Multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) significantly altered diagnoses and treatment plans for nervous system tumors. These collaborative discussions also reduced patient referral times, improving care efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Medical oncology
- Clinical research
Background:
- Limited research exists on the effectiveness of multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) for nervous system tumors.
- MDTBs involve a team of specialists to discuss complex patient cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the utility of MDTBs in improving diagnostic interpretations and treatment strategies for patients with nervous system tumors.
- To assess the impact of MDTBs on patient management and referral times.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted across 4 hospitals from July to November 2019.
- 176 patient cases discussed at MDTBs were analyzed for demographic data, diagnoses, and treatment plans.
- Data on image interpretation, management changes, and clinical trial eligibility were recorded.
Main Results:
- MDTBs resulted in a 21.6% change in image interpretation and a 58.2% change in patient management.
- The most common diagnosis was glioblastoma (32.4%).
- Patients discussed in MDTBs experienced significantly shorter referral times (p = 0.024).
Conclusions:
- MDTB discussions led to substantial diagnostic and treatment plan modifications for nervous system tumors.
- The findings underscore the clinical value of multidisciplinary care in neuro-oncology.
- Shortened referral times indicate improved efficiency in patient care pathways.
