5 Min Read
Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells within the brain or its surrounding structures. They can be classified into two main types: benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). The need for brain tumour surgery depends on various factors, including the type, size, location, and symptoms caused by the tumour.
Synopsis
When is Brain Tumor Surgery Necessary?
1. Symptomatic Tumors
One of the primary reasons for brain tumour operation is the presence of symptoms that significantly impact the patient’s quality of life. Symptoms can include:
-
Persistent headaches
-
Seizures
-
Vision or hearing problems
-
Cognitive or personality changes
When these symptoms are severe and cannot be managed with medication alone, brain tumour surgery may be recommended to alleviate pressure on the brain and improve the patient’s condition.
Leading the Way in Neurosurgery in Dwarka
Our team of the best neurosurgeons in Dwarka at Manipal Hospitals is at the forefront of medical innovation. Learn about their work here.
2. Tumor Growth and Size
The size and growth rate of a brain tumour are critical factors in determining the need for surgery. Rapidly growing tumours, whether benign or malignant, can quickly become life-threatening due to their potential to compress vital brain structures. In such cases, brain tumour removal is essential to prevent further complications.
Table summarizing some common minimally invasive surgery techniques:
|
Technique |
Description |
Common Uses |
|
Laparoscopic Surgery |
Uses small incisions and a camera to guide instruments. |
Gallbladder removal, hernia repair, etc. |
|
Robotic Surgery |
Surgeons control robotic arms for precision through small incisions. |
Prostate surgery, heart surgery, etc. |
|
Endoscopic Surgery |
Uses an endoscope inserted through natural openings (e.g., mouth, nose). |
Sinus surgery, gastrointestinal surgery |
|
Endovascular Surgery |
Involves threading a catheter through blood vessels to perform the surgery. |
Aneurysm repair, angioplasty |
|
Arthroscopic Surgery |
Uses a camera and instruments inserted through small incisions in joints. |
Knee, shoulder, and other joint surgeries |
3. Location of the Tumor
The location of the tumour within the brain also plays a significant role in the decision to perform surgery. Tumours located in accessible areas are more likely to be surgically removed. However, tumours in critical or hard-to-reach areas may require a more cautious approach, balancing the benefits of surgery against the risks of potential damage to essential brain functions.
Types of Brain Tumor Surgery
1. Malignant Brain Tumor Surgery
Malignant brain tumours, such as glioblastomas, require aggressive treatment due to their cancerous nature. Surgery is often the first step in the treatment plan, aiming to remove as much of the tumour as possible. This is usually followed by additional therapies like radiation and chemotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells.
2. Benign Brain Tumor Surgery
Benign brain tumours, while non-cancerous, can still cause significant health issues if they grow large enough to press on brain structures. Surgery for benign tumours focuses on complete removal to prevent recurrence and alleviate symptoms. Examples of benign tumours that may require brain cancer treatment include meningiomas and acoustic neuromas.
Brain Tumor Treatment in Ghaziabad
For patients in Ghaziabad, access to advanced brain tumour treatment is crucial. The city offers several specialized medical centres equipped with state-of-the-art technology and experienced neurosurgeons. These facilities provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to post-surgery rehabilitation, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcomes.
Here's a table summarizing the grades of brain tumours:
|
Grade |
Description |
Characteristics |
|
Grade 1 |
Tumor cells look nearly normal and grow slowly. |
Often benign, can sometimes be completely removed with surgery. |
|
Grade 2 |
Tumor cells look slightly abnormal and grow slowly. |
May spread into nearby tissues and can recur after treatment. |
|
Grade 3 |
Tumor cells look very different from normal cells and grow quickly. |
Likely to spread into nearby tissues, more aggressive and malignant. |
|
Grade 4 |
Tumor cells look highly abnormal and grow very quickly. |
Highly aggressive, likely to spread rapidly, and often associated with poor prognosis. |
Factors Influencing the Decision for Surgery
1. Patient’s Overall Health
The patient’s overall health and medical history are important considerations. Brain surgery may be more challenging for individuals with other serious health conditions, and the risks must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits.
2. Tumor Characteristics
The specific characteristics of the tumour, including its type, grade, and genetic markers, can influence the treatment approach. Some tumours may respond better to surgery, while others might be more effectively treated with non-surgical methods.
3. Patient’s Preferences
Patient preferences and quality of life considerations are also vital. Some patients may opt for surgery to quickly relieve symptoms, while others might prefer less invasive treatments if the tumour is slow-growing and not causing significant issues.
Advances in Brain Tumour Surgery
Recent advancements in brain tumour surgery have significantly improved patient outcomes. Techniques such as minimally invasive surgery, intraoperative imaging, and neuro-navigation systems allow for more precise and safer tumour removal. These innovations reduce recovery times and enhance the overall success rates of brain tumour surgeries.
Conclusion
Brain tumour surgery is a critical intervention for many patients suffering from both benign and malignant brain tumours. The decision to undergo surgery depends on various factors, including the tumour’s characteristics, the patient’s health, and the potential benefits of the procedure. For those in Ghaziabad, access to advanced medical facilities ensures that patients receive top-notch care tailored to their specific needs.
If you or a loved one is facing a brain tumour diagnosis, it’s essential to consult with a specialized neurosurgeon to discuss the best treatment options. With the right approach, brain tumour surgery can significantly improve quality of life and provide hope for a healthier future.
Looking for specialized care and support with top-notch services - Visit Manipal Hospitals Dwarka today!
FAQ's
Patients with symptomatic brain tumours, rapidly growing tumours, or tumours located in accessible areas may need surgery. Both benign and malignant tumours can require surgical intervention.
Memory loss is a risk of brain tumour surgery, but the causes can be multifactorial, and not directly related to removing the brain tumour. One challenge is determining if a person truly has memory loss alone, or if there is difficulty creating and or retrieving information due to delirium.
-
Frequent headaches.
-
Agitation and delirium.
-
Agonal breathing (gasping breaths that occur when a person is struggling to breathe)
-
Prolonged confusion.
-
Hallucinations.
-
Loss of appetite.
-
Vision loss.
-
Involuntary movements.
Surgeons use various techniques, including craniotomy (opening the skull), minimally invasive methods, and advanced imaging technologies to precisely remove the tumour while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Alternatives include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and watchful waiting for slow-growing tumours that do not cause significant symptoms.
Share this article on:
