Overview
The study is designed as an international, multicenter prospective cohort study. Patients with presumed glioblastoma (GBM) in- or near eloquent areas on diagnostic MRI will be selected by neurosurgeons. Patients will be treated following one of three study arms: 1) a craniotomy where the resection boundaries for motor or language functions will be identified by the "awake" mapping technique (awake craniotomy, AC); 2) a craniotomy where the resection boundaries for motor functions will be identified by "asleep" mapping techniques (MEPs, SSEPs, continuous dynamic mapping); 3) a craniotomy where the resection boundaries will not be identified by any mapping technique ("no mapping group"). All patients will receive follow-up according to standard practice.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age ≥18 years and ≤ 90 years
- Tumor diagnosed as GBM on MRI as assessed by the neurosurgeon
- Tumors situated in or near eloquent areas; motor cortex, sensory cortex, subcortical pyramidal tract, speech areas or visual areas as indicated on MRI (Sawaya Grading II and II)
- The tumor is suitable for resection (according to neurosurgeon)
- Written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Tumors of the cerebellum, brain stem or midline
- Multifocal contrast enhancing lesions
- Medical reasons precluding MRI (e.g. pacemaker)
- Inability to give written informed consent (e.g. because of severe language barrier)
- Second primary malignancy within the past 5 years with the exception of adequately treated in situ carcinoma of any organ or basal cell carcinoma of the skin