Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside adds minimally invasive laser procedure to treat brain tumors

Dr. Aristotelis Filippidis, a neurosurgeon with a subspecialty in neurosurgical oncology, uses laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) to destroy unhealthy tissue, typically in the brain, using heat from lasers. The procedure is a surgical alternative to traditional open skull surgery with less pain and a shorter recovery time for patients.

"LITT changes the way we're able to treat certain brain tumors and epilepsy, all to the benefit of the patient," Dr. Filippidis said. "Traditionally, we've had to temporarily remove part of the patient's skull via craniotomy. Now, patients walk away with a small incision, which greatly eases their pain and recovery."

During the procedure, a small incision is made in the skull. A laser catheter is then inserted into the tumor or targeted area of the brain. The laser heats the abnormal tissue, destroying it without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.

Valerie Pickett, a breast cancer survivor who's undergone maintenance treatment for many years, learned she had a brain lesion after she started experiencing dizziness over the last year. After several treatment methods were unsuccessful in removing the lesion, Pickett consulted with Dr. Fillippidis for the LITT procedure.

"From the minute I met Dr. Filippidis, I felt totally confident that this was the person who was going to take care of me," said Valerie, who was St. Vincent's Riverside's first LITT patient. "The care and concern for both my physical and emotional care has been exceptional; St. Vincent's is a truly world-class facility in all aspects."

Dr. Filippidis met Pickett and her husband the same day she was referred to his care. Soon after, Dr. Filippidis performed the first LITT procedure at St. Vincent's Riverside and successfully removed her brain lesion.

After the procedure, patients often go home the next day. Most can get back to work and their everyday activities much more quickly compared to traditional brain surgery.

Pickett feels blessed to have received this treatment. A globetrotter who has lived in several countries around the world, she said her experience with St. Vincent's Riverside was unmatched.

"A few years ago this procedure didn't exist," Pickett said. "For me, it was destiny that everything lined up in my favor. I feel extremely privileged."

St. Vincent's Riverside was recognized as a Best Regional Hospital by the U.S. News and World Report for 2025-2026. The hospital also received a Patient Safety Excellence Award for 2025 from Healthgrades.