# Glioblastoma laser therapy research

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/glioblastoma-laser-therapy-research
> Updated: 2026-08-31T15:59:47.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine have conducted a study involving 787 patients to evaluate the effectiveness of laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) for treating glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer.

The research indicates that the extent of tumor destruction is a critical factor for patient survival. Patients who achieved at least 91 percent tumor removal through this minimally invasive, MRI-guided procedure lived an average of 2.1 years from diagnosis, compared to approximately 1.5 years for those undergoing standard open surgery. 

Lead author Eric C. Leuthardt noted that the objective is to improve quality of life and extend survival times by identifying the specific clinical factors that lead to the best outcomes.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Washington University researchers find improved laser therapy for glioblastoma

Washington University researchers found that laser therapy destroying at least 91% of glioblastoma tumors can extend patient survival to an average of 2.1 years.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/washington-university-researchers-find-improved-laser-therapy-for-glioblastoma

### 2026-08-17: Washington University study finds laser therapy extends glioblastoma survival

A study led by Washington University School of Medicine shows that minimally invasive laser therapy (LITT) can extend survival for glioblastoma patients, particularly when significant tumor removal is achieved.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/washington-university-study-finds-laser-therapy-extends-glioblastoma-survival

---
Cite as: Glioblastoma laser therapy research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/glioblastoma-laser-therapy-research