When facing a diagnosis such as a brain tumor, epilepsy, or vascular abnormalities in the brain, selecting the most appropriate treatment is a critical step in your care journey. At Cooper University Health Care and MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper we offer laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), an advanced, minimally invasive procedure that uses precisely targeted heat to treat abnormal brain tissue with pinpoint accuracy. This innovative approach allows for effective treatment while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, offering new possibilities for patients who may not be candidates for traditional surgery.
What Is LITT?
LITT is a revolutionary neurosurgical technique that uses laser energy to gently heat and destroy diseased tissue deep within the brain that can be hard to reach with conventional surgery.
LITT is performed by implanting a laser catheter into the tumor and heating it to temperatures high enough to kill the tumor.
Using advanced computer-guided imaging and real-time MRI, neurosurgeons implant a laser catheter into the brain and precisely monitor the temperature and location of the laser, ensuring that only the abnormal tissue is treated while protecting surrounding healthy brain structures.
The procedure typically requires only a small (2-millimeter) incision in the scalp and often takes less than an hour to complete.
Most patients can go home the day after treatment and can quickly return to normal activities.
LITT may also be an option for patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as stereotactic radiosurgery, or who are experiencing radiation necrosis.
Because LITT is minimally invasive, it’s especially beneficial for patients who are not candidates for open surgery due to age, overall health, or tumor location.
What Conditions Can LITT Treat?
LITT is an effective option for several brain conditions, particularly when traditional surgery isn’t possible or carries too many risks.
LITT is used to treat both cancer and non-cancer conditions, including:
- Brain tumors (both primary and metastatic).
- Radiation-resistant brain lesions.
- Recurrent glioblastoma and astrocytoma.
- Epilepsy (especially in hard-to-reach areas like the hippocampus).
- Abnormal blood vessel formations (e.g., cavernous malformations).
- Radiation necrosis – scar tissue caused by previous treatments.
Why Choosing the Right Team Matters
LITT requires advanced imaging, surgical expertise, and highly specialized technology — but most importantly, it requires an experienced team that knows how to tailor the treatment to your unique condition.
Our multidisciplinary neurosurgery team includes board-certified neurosurgeons, neurologists, neuro-oncologists, and MRI specialists who work together to create a safe, effective, and personalized treatment plan for you.
What to Expect
- Minimally invasive: Tiny incision, no large opening of the skull.
- Real-time precision: MRI-guided laser placement.
- Faster recovery: Most patients go home within 24-48 hours.
- Less discomfort: Lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
Is LITT Right for You?
Not every patient is a candidate for LITT, but for many, it offers a powerful option with less disruption to their life and a highly effective treatment. If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a brain condition and you're exploring treatment options, our team is here to help.
To schedule an appointment to meet with a member of the MD Anderson at Cooper Brain Tumor Program, call 855.MDA.COOPER (855.632.2667)
For patients with non-cancerous neurological conditions seeking an appointment with a member of the Cooper and Inspira Neuroscience team, call 855.30.NEURO (855.306.3876).