Which statement about Gliadel wafers is true?

• A. They are carmustine wafers placed during surgery to kill tumor cells
• B. They are administered systemically
• C. They treat metastases outside the brain
• D. They are used for intrathecal administration

Answer: (A)

Local delivery of chemotherapy to the brain via implanted wafers is a distinct approach. Gliadel wafers are biodegradable discs impregnated with carmustine that are placed into the surgical cavity after tumor resection. They release the drug locally, producing high concentrations at the tumor bed to kill residual cancer cells while minimizing systemic exposure. This is why the statement describing them as carmustine wafers placed during surgery to kill tumor cells is true. They are not given systemically, they do not treat metastases outside the brain, and they are not used for intrathecal administration.