An alliance between Clínica Medilaser and the Instituto Médico Oncológico has consolidated an integrated program to treat central nervous system tumors in southern Colombia. The service, led by neurosurgeon Silvia Quintero, serves patients from several regions from its Neiva site.
The program brings together more than 14 medical specialties and holds weekly meetings to define personalized treatments. It includes psychological, social and rehabilitation support, plus high-end equipment such as specialized surgical microscopes.
Five years ago patients with skull-base tumors had to travel to Bogotá, Cali or Medellín. Now fewer than 2 % require transfer out of Neiva, according to manager Carolina Cabrera Soto.
The service treats children and adults from Huila, Caquetá, Putumayo and other areas. For minors, radiotherapy masks are customized with superhero images.
A prevention strategy will visit Paicol in June to promote early detection of symptoms such as chronic headaches.