Gliadel wafers

University Hospital is a specialised centre for neurosurgery and is therefore able to provide new types of cutting edge treatment for tumours such as gliadel wafers.

What are gliadel wafers?

Gliadel wafers are wafer thin implants which are impregnated with the chemotherapy drug Carmustine. Gliadel wafers work alongside other treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy.

Who are gliadel wafers suitable for?

This treatment is aimed specifically at patients who have a high grade tumour. 90 percent of the tumour has to have been removed before the gliadel wafers can be inserted. (See Telepath Link). 

For the full criteria on eligibility for treatment with gliadel wafers, see the NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) website.

What are the advantages of gliadel wafers?

The chemotherapy in the wafers is released fully and immediately to the patient when the wafers are implanted. This means that the dosage is more concentrated and highly effective.