Brain Cancer Canada is proud to announce The Dwayne Andrews Glioblastoma Research Grant of $85,000 awarded to Dr. Jeremy Brown at Dalhousie University for his project, "Clinical Testing of a High-Resolution Ultrasound Endoscope for Guiding Brain Tumour Resection." This innovative initiative aims to improve surgical outcomes for patients diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), one of the most aggressive and fatal brain cancers.
GBM carries a one-year survival rate of just 25%, and surgical resection remains the primary standard of care. Studies have consistently shown that more accurate tumour removal during surgery is associated with longer patient survival. However, imaging technologies currently available to guide surgeons during operations are limited in both precision and practicality.
To address this critical need, Dr. Brown’s team has developed a miniature, pencil-sized ultrasound imaging probe capable of visualizing tumour tissue in real time during surgery. This device is distinguished not only by its compact size but also by its exceptionally high resolution, allowing it to detect tumour margins with remarkable accuracy. The project will clinically test the performance of this new technology by evaluating its ability to enhance tumour resection during brain surgery.
The Dwayne Andrews Glioblastoma Research Grant has been made possible through the generous support of the Auto|One Group and The Andrews Family.
Kevin Andrews, President & CEO of Auto|One Group, experienced the loss of his brother Dwayne Andrews to Glioblastoma in 2020, less than two years after his diagnosis. “It is both a personal honour and a privilege on behalf of Auto|One Group to partner with BCC in supporting cutting-edge brain cancer research in memory of my brother.”, says Kevin. “Dwayne’s strength and spirit continue to inspire me every day. Collaborating with Dr. Brown at Dalhousie University, our family's alma mater, holds deep meaning for us. This vital research represents hope and is paving the way for innovative treatment options for families impacted by this devastating disease: Everyone deserves the chance for survival - a chance my brother never had.”