DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed recurrent or refractory glioblastoma multiforme, gliosarcoma, anaplastic astrocytoma, anaplastic oligodendroglioma, anaplastic oligoastrocytoma (mixed glioma), anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, or malignant dedifferentiation from prior low grade glioma Tumor in first relapse Measurable disease by MRI scan Enhancing lesion amenable to gross total resection Postoperative resection cavity not communicating freely with ventricular system