Topics
Table of Contents
Brain tumor removal surgery, also known as craniotomy for tumor excision, is one of the most advanced and delicate neurosurgical procedures performed to remove abnormal growths from the brain. In order to relieve pressure, enhance neurological function, and, in certain situations, totally cure the illness, it is frequently a life-saving surgery.
Brain Tumor Removal Surgery: What is it?
An abnormal mass of cells that grows out of control inside the brain or adjacent structures is called a brain tumour. Malignant (cancerous) and benign (non-cancerous) tumours are both possible. Neurosurgeons may choose to surgically remove all or a portion of the tumour, depending on its location, size, and type.
When performing surgery to remove a brain tumour, the neurosurgeon:
Opens a craniotomy, or portion of the skull.
Uses intraoperative MRI or neuronavigation to properly locate the tumour.
Gently removes the tumour while causing the least amount of harm to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Closes the scalp and skull after confirming that the brain is functioning properly.
The Surgery’s Objective
To ease symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or weakness brought on by pressure on the brain
To acquire tissue for diagnosis and biopsy
To minimise damage to vital brain regions while removing as much tumour as feasible
To prolong survival and, if feasible, enhance quality of life
Brain Tumour Surgery Types
The size, type, and location of the tumour determine the sort of surgery required. Typical methods include:
Craniotomy: The most popular technique, which involves opening the skull to remove the tumour.
Endoscopic brain surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a camera to make tiny incisions.
Stereotactic Biopsy: Just a sample is obtained for diagnosis in cases of deep or incurable tumours.
Awake craniotomy: To preserve essential brain functions (such as speech or movement), the patient is awake.
Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT): Using a tiny probe and laser energy, destroys tumour tissue.
Stereotactic Surgery: An exact, image-guided procedure that builds a comprehensive brain map using 3D imaging, helping the neurosurgeon target the tumour with minimal damage.
Laser Brain Surgery: Targets and eliminates tumour cells using lasers while causing the least amount of tissue damage possible.
Gamma knife surgery: A type of stereotactic radiosurgery that targets the tumour with concentrated radiation beams, often used for tiny or hard-to-reach tumours.
Other or Different Treatment Choices
Treatment options may not necessarily include surgery. Depending on the patient’s condition and the type of tumour, doctors might suggest:
Radiation therapy: High-energy beams destroy or reduce tumour cells.
Gamma knife radiosurgery: A non-invasive method applying concentrated radiation to small or deeply seated tumours.
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to specifically target and destroy cancer cells.
Immunotherapy and targeted therapy: Cutting-edge interventions targeting particular cancer cell processes.
Observation/Monitoring (Watchful Waiting): For benign, small, slow-growing tumours without major symptoms.
Note: Shunt surgery is not the same as direct tumour removal; it is performed to reduce elevated pressure caused by excess cerebral fluid (hydrocephalus).
What to Expect – Getting Ready for the Surgery for Brain Tumours
Patients usually go through several examinations and consultations to make sure they are prepared for brain tumour surgery. This could consist of:
Neurological examinations: To evaluate brain activity and detect any tumor-related impairments.
Imaging studies: MRI, CT, or PET scans to determine the tumor’s size, location, and features.
Blood tests: To assess general well-being and detect underlying diseases.
Consultations: To discuss the surgery, risks, and expectations with the anaesthesiologist, neurosurgeon, and surgical team.
What is the Process During the Surgery?
Usually, general anaesthesia is used during brain tumour surgery, keeping the patient unconscious and pain-free. Depending on the kind of procedure, the precise steps will vary, however typically the neurosurgeon will:
Cut the scalp and remove a portion of the skull.
Remove the tumour while protecting healthy brain tissue.
Use staples or stitches to seal the wound.
Replace the portion of the skull that was removed, if necessary.
Depending on complexity, the procedure might take 2 to 6 hours.
Will I Be Conscious While Having Brain Surgery?
Depending on the particular treatment, you may or may not be awake during brain surgery.
General anaesthesia induces deep sleep for some surgeries.
Sedation or awake craniotomy keeps you conscious and responsive for specific areas like speech or movement control.
The Consenting Process
The patient and their family receive comprehensive counselling prior to the procedure regarding:
Type of tumour
Advantages and anticipated results
Potential dangers and complications
Alternative treatment options
Post-surgery recovery and rehabilitation
Only after a complete understanding can informed consent be acquired. Transparency and collaborative decision-making between surgeon, patient, and family are key.
Potential Issues
When carried out by qualified neurosurgeons, brain tumour removal surgery is usually safe; nonetheless, risks could include:
Infection or bleeding
Brain swelling (oedema)
Seizures
Lack of coordination, weakness, or trouble speaking
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage
Alterations in personality, hearing, or vision (depending on tumour site)
Rarely, a coma or stroke
Although the tumour’s location, patient health, and surgical complexity affect risk, major complications are rare with modern technology.
Recovery Following Brain Tumour Surgery
Hospital stay: 5–10 days on average
ICU observation: 1–2 days post-surgery
Rehabilitation: Physical, speech, and occupational therapy as needed
Follow-up scans: To check for tumour remnants or recurrence
Return to normal life: Gradually, depending on recovery rate
Patients should avoid heavy lifting, driving, and vigorous activities until cleared by their neurosurgeon.
Sources:
- https://www.apollohospitals.com/procedures/brain-tumor-surgery-procedures-risks-and-recovery
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/brain-tumor/brain-tumor-surgery
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brain-tumor-surgery/about/pac-20584295
- https://www.neurosurgery.columbia.edu/patient-care/treatments/brain-tumor-surgery
- https://www.moffitt.org/cancers/brain-tumor/treatment/surgery/
FAQs
While all surgeries carry risk, modern techniques and monitoring have made them far safer. When symptoms are significant, benefits often outweigh risks.
Depends on tumour location. Some tissue may be left if near critical areas to avoid damage.
Most procedures take 4–8 hours depending on complexity.
Neurosurgeons use brain mapping and neuronavigation to minimize risks. Awake craniotomy helps protect these areas.
Mild headaches or discomfort are common but manageable with medication.
Some can. Regular MRI follow-ups are essential; further treatment might be needed.
Most resume activities within weeks to months, depending on neurological recovery.
Not always. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or Gamma Knife radiosurgery may be alternatives or add-ons.
Costs vary by hospital, tumour type, and technology. Government hospitals like AIIMS Delhi offer advanced care at low cost.
At specialised neurosurgical centres and tertiary hospitals like AIIMS Delhi, equipped with cutting-edge technology and expert surgeons.
