Introduction & Symptoms
Brain Tumor surgery is a critical component of Neurosurgical specialty aimed at removing or reducing the tumor mass from the brain. The tumor may remain asymptomatic for a long time. Symptoms include headache, vomiting, altered sensorium, diminished vision, or convulsion. Depending upon the location, patients may have limb weakness or altered behavior.
Types of Brain Tumors
These originate within brain tissues and invade surrounding areas. Examples include Gliomas (Astrocytoma, Glioblastoma Multiforme/GBM, Oligodendroglioma, and Ependymoma) and benign tumors (Meningioma, Pituitary tumor, Acoustic tumor, Pineal tumor, Medulloblastoma, Chordoma, and Hemangioblastoma). Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant.
These cancerous tumors arise from other body organs (lungs, breast, kidneys, etc.) and spread to the brain via the bloodstream.
Neurosurgical Operative Techniques
- Craniotomy: Involves removing a portion of the skull (bone flap) to access the brain tumor, which is replaced and secured with mini plates or screws afterwards.
- Burr Hole: A small (2cm) trephine hole made in the skull to drain blood clots, cystic fluids, or abscess.
- Stereotactic Surgery: A minimally invasive frame-based biopsy/aspiration guided by CT or MRI in 3D coordinates, avoiding major craniotomies for deep-seated lesions.
- Endoscopic Surgery: A fiber optic telescope used to access and remove tumors (e.g., ventricular tumors) through keyhole burr holes.
- Awake Brain Surgery: Performed near speech or motor centers with the patient awake for real-time functional assessment.
Recovery, Care & Risks
Patients spend 1-2 days in the ICU under close monitoring. Management involves neurological checks, pain medications, seizure prevention, and early physical/occupational therapy.
Although rare, potential complications include infection, bleeding at the site, limb weakness, cerebrospinal fluid leak, seizures, and cognitive changes. Risk parameters depend heavily on tumor size and location.
Expert Brain Tumor Surgery Solutions
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