Convection-Enhanced Delivery in the Treatment of Glioblastoma

Semin Oncol Nurs. 2018 Dec;34(5):494-500. doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2018.10.004. Epub 2018 Nov 2.

Abstract

Objective: To describe the indications for convection-enhanced delivery in the treatment of glioblastoma, highlighting candidates for the delivery method, mechanics of drug delivery, and management of acute and long-term complications.

Data sources: A conceptual framework drawn from published literature as well as author's expert experiences.

Conclusion: Convection-enhanced delivery is an established method of delivering new therapies to patients with glioblastoma. Management of both acute and long-term complications is often drug dependent.

Implications for nursing practice: Nurses should be able to recognize and manage potential complications during the infusion of agents delivered via convection-enhanced delivery. Post-infusion symptoms may worsen because of immunologic responses related to the drug and management should be directed toward symptom relief and support without interference on the immunologic response.

Keywords: convection-enhanced delivery; glioblastoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Convection*
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Female
  • Glioblastoma / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Oncology Nursing / methods*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents