Brain tumor removal is a delicate operation in which the surgeon opens part of the skull (craniotomy) to remove a tumor completely or partly, depending on its location and nature. It applies to benign and malignant tumors and aims to relieve pressure on the brain, improve symptoms and identify the tumor type precisely, while preserving neurological function as far as possible.
The operation is usually done under general anesthesia, and in selected cases the patient is kept partly awake to protect the areas that control speech and movement. The surgeon uses a microscope, image guidance and neurological monitoring, sends a tumor sample to the laboratory, then replaces the bone and closes the wound.
Surgery usually takes two to six hours or more. The patient then stays in hospital a few days, sometimes briefly in intensive care, and recovery takes weeks. Laboratory results usually arrive within days, and the treating team decides on any further treatment.
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It may relieve pressure inside the skull and improve symptoms such as headaches, seizures and weakness in the limbs. It also allows a sample of the tumor to be examined so its type can be identified precisely. The treating team estimates the expected benefit in each case.
This is decided after an MRI scan of the brain and an assessment of the tumor's location and size and of the patient's general health. Some tumors can be removed completely, others only partly to protect vital areas, and surgery may not suit every patient.
Blood tests, brain imaging and heart and anesthesia assessments are usually performed, and the doctor reviews your medicines. Blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs often need to be stopped, but only at a time the doctor specifies. Fasting follows the team's instructions.
After anesthesia, the surgeon opens a section of the skull bone and carefully cuts the protective membranes. The tumor is then removed with the help of a microscope, guidance technology and neurological monitoring. Finally the bone is replaced, fixed in position and the wound is closed.
The patient is monitored in hospital for several days and may have headache, facial swelling and fatigue, which are treated with painkillers and anti-swelling medicines when needed. Returning to full activity usually takes weeks, and some patients need occupational therapy or rehabilitation.
Imaging after surgery shows how much of the tumor was removed, and the microscopic result usually comes within days, although detailed tests can take longer. Follow-up and any additional treatment depend on the tumor type, and the treating team sets the plan.
They include bleeding, infection, brain swelling, seizures and leakage of cerebrospinal fluid. Depending on the tumor's location there may be temporary or permanent changes in speech, movement, sensation or vision. The surgeon explains these risks to each patient before the operation.
The incision is made in the scalp and is usually hidden under the hair. It heals over several weeks and generally leaves a thin linear scar. Only a small area of hair near the incision may need to be shaved.
It depends on how recovery progresses and on test results, and the stay after surgery can range from a few days to several weeks. The treating doctor confirms when travel is safe.
This depends on the tumor type, its grade and how much was removed. Some benign tumors may need only regular follow-up imaging, while others require further treatment. The treating team decides the plan once the laboratory result is available.
