Brain tumor surgery may be considered when tissue diagnosis or surgical treatment is appropriate. The treatment approach depends on the type, size and location of the tumor and its relationship to important areas of the brain.
Brain Tumor Surgery at Sparsh Hospital, Jalandhar
Brain tumor surgery is a specialised neurosurgical treatment used in selected patients with a brain tumor. The purpose of surgery may be to obtain a tissue diagnosis, remove as much of the tumor as can be safely removed, or relieve pressure and symptoms caused by the tumor.
The appropriate treatment depends on several factors, including the type of tumor, its size and location, the symptoms it is causing and its relationship to important areas of the brain. Your neurosurgical team will assess your reports and imaging before discussing the most appropriate treatment approach.
When May Brain Tumor Surgery Be Recommended?
Surgery may be considered when a brain tumor requires a tissue diagnosis or when removing part or all of the tumor is considered appropriate and safe.
In some cases, removing as much of the tumor as safely possible may help establish the diagnosis and may also help relieve symptoms or pressure. However, complete removal is not always possible or appropriate, particularly when the tumor is close to important structures of the brain.
Some patients may require a biopsy rather than a larger surgical removal. The decision depends on the individual condition and the treatment plan recommended by the neurosurgical team.
How Is a Brain Tumor Evaluated?
Before surgery, your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history and neurological examination along with relevant brain imaging. CT or MRI scans may be used to understand the size and position of the tumor and to help plan treatment.
In selected cases, detailed imaging and computer-assisted planning may help the neurosurgical team identify the location of the tumor and plan an appropriate surgical route.
What Is a Craniotomy?
A craniotomy is a surgical procedure in which the neurosurgeon temporarily removes a section of the skull to access the brain. After the required part of the procedure is completed, the bone is generally placed back and secured, and the scalp is closed.
The size and location of the opening depend on the location of the tumor and the surgical approach required.
What Is a Brain Tumor Biopsy?
A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tumor tissue so that it can be examined and a diagnosis can be established.
A biopsy may be recommended when removing the tumor is not considered appropriate or when obtaining a tissue diagnosis is necessary to plan further treatment. Depending on the situation, additional treatment such as radiotherapy or medicines may be considered after the diagnosis is established.
What Happens During Brain Tumor Surgery?
The exact procedure varies from patient to patient. Depending on the planned operation, the patient may receive general anaesthesia and the neurosurgeon will use the appropriate surgical approach to reach the tumor.
The surgeon may remove part or, where considered safe and appropriate, a larger portion of the tumor. In some cases, only a biopsy is performed.
The tissue removed during surgery may be sent for laboratory examination. The final diagnosis can help the treating team understand the tumor and plan any further treatment that may be required.
What Happens After Surgery?
After surgery, patients are monitored closely in a recovery area. Depending on the type of operation and the patient's condition, further monitoring in a high-dependency or intensive-care setting may sometimes be required.
Recovery varies according to the type of surgery, the underlying condition and the patient's overall health. Some patients may require rehabilitation or additional support depending on their symptoms and recovery.
Your treating team will provide individual instructions regarding medicines, wound care, activity, follow-up appointments and any further treatment.
Possible Risks of Brain Tumor Surgery
Brain surgery is a major procedure and carries potential risks. The risks vary depending on the type of surgery and the location of the tumor.
Possible complications can include bleeding, infection, swelling of the brain, seizures and neurological problems. Depending on the area involved, neurological changes may affect movement, sensation, speech, vision or other functions.
Your neurosurgeon will explain the risks and potential benefits of the proposed procedure and discuss available alternatives before treatment.
Will the Entire Brain Tumor Always Be Removed?
Not necessarily. In some patients, removing the entire tumor may not be considered safe because of its location or its relationship to important structures of the brain.
In such situations, the surgeon may remove part of the tumor, sometimes referred to as debulking, or recommend a biopsy to establish the diagnosis. The treatment plan is individualised according to the patient's condition.
What Should You Bring to Your Consultation?
If you are visiting a neurosurgeon for evaluation of a brain tumor, bring your previous CT or MRI scans, medical reports, prescriptions and a list of your current medicines.
Information about previous treatments, medical conditions, allergies and earlier surgeries can also help the treating team understand your medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every brain tumor require surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the type of tumor, its location, size, symptoms and other individual factors. Some patients may require surgery, while others may be managed with monitoring, medicines, radiotherapy or other treatments.
What is the difference between a biopsy and tumor removal?
A biopsy removes a small sample of tissue mainly to establish a diagnosis. Tumor removal or debulking involves removing part or, when considered safe and appropriate, a larger portion of the tumor.
Is complete removal of a brain tumor always possible?
No. The location of a tumor can make complete removal unsafe or inappropriate. In such cases, the surgical team may recommend partial removal, biopsy or another treatment approach.
How long does recovery take after brain tumor surgery?
Recovery varies from person to person. It depends on the type of surgery, the underlying condition, the location of the tumor and the patient's overall health. Your treating team can provide more specific guidance after assessing your case.
What happens after the tumor is removed?
Tissue removed during surgery may be examined to establish the diagnosis. Depending on the results, your medical team may discuss further treatment or follow-up with you.
Consult a Neurosurgeon in Jalandhar
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with a brain tumor or has been advised to undergo further evaluation, specialist assessment can help you understand the diagnosis and available treatment options.
Bring your previous scans and medical records to your consultation so that the treating team can review your case comprehensively.