Convection-Enhanced Delivery in the Treatment of Glioblastoma

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.