Many complex factors contribute to malformations and illnesses of the brain, so our diagnostic process for these conditions is extensive and advanced. At Polaris, we understand that any diagnosis pertaining to the brain is scary, but we assure our patients that you have options. For years we’ve worked with patients experiencing a range of brain and spine related conditions, and we’ve tailored our approach specifically to meet their needs.

We’ll continue to do so by not only housing the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technology in the industry but also by dedicating ourselves to patient orientation. Our surgeons employ leading edge technologies, such as radiosurgery, in order to help care for our patients with brain conditions.


There is a wide variety of brain tumors. These different types of brain tumors can be broken into categories based on things such as location and type.

  • Astrocytomas (Astrocytomas, Glioblastoma Multiforme, GBM): Also known at gliomas, these are the most common types of primary brain tumors.
  • Acoustic Neuromas are benign tumors that are caused by the abnormal growth of Schwann cells on the vestibular portion of the eighth cranial nerve. Schwann cells insulate and support neurons. Typically, and if untreated, the tumors fill the small space between the brainstem and the skull.
  • Meningiomas comprise 20 percent of all brain tumors. Meningiomas originate from the arachnoid, a thin layer that covers both the brain and the spinal cord. The most frequent locations are along the midline, over the top of the skull or along the skull base.


Metastatic brain tumors are tumors that have spread to the brain from a tumor somewhere else in the body. Most commonly, cells from the original tumor travel to another location in the bloodstream. As the tumor cells enter the capillaries in a distant part of the body, they become fixed and begin to multiply. Metastatic brain tumors are the most common type of brain tumor. Between 100,000 and 200,000 patients are diagnosed annually with brain metastasis in the United States. The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, can also be affected by tumors. The pituitary gland controls endocrine function by the secretion hormones. Each brain tumor and treatment is unique, and if you’ve been diagnosed, Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery will explore your best options.

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