What is a Brain Tumor Surgery?

Brain tumor surgery arises from the glial cells or supportive tissue of the brain or spinal cord. The glial cells in the brain help to keep the neurons in the proper location and functioning well. When these cells become cancerous, it may require a brain tumor operation, especially in cases like gliomas, which often need specialized glioma treatment and glioma surgery for effective management.

How is Brain Tumor Surgery identified?

The neurologist recommends the following tests if he suspects any tumor in the brain.

1. CT scan (computerized tomography)
2. MRI scan (Magnetic resonance imaging)

How are Brain Tumor Surgery treated?

The treatment of brain tumor surgery mostly depends on the type of glioma (cell type), location of the tumor, grade of malignancy, patient’s age and physical condition.

• Surgery: Surgery is the most preferred technique because it removes the tumor completely. CT scans and MRI aid the neurosurgeon in locating and precisely removing the tumor.
• Radiation therapy: This mode of treatment uses high-energy x-rays to kill the cancer cells. In gliomas, the RT is given in multiple small doses to minimize the side effects on the patient as well as to reduce the effects on normal brain tissue. Radiation is given in specific beams to prevent spillage and maximize effectiveness.
• Chemotherapy: This mode of treatment uses anti-cancer medications to stop the proliferation of tumor cells. The side effects are much less than conventional chemotherapy used in other cancers. The medication is frequently in the form of tablets, which don’t affect the functioning of patients at all.

FAQs

Q1. How successful is brain tumor surgery?

The success of brain tumor surgery depends on the tumor’s type, size, location, and whether it's benign or malignant. In many cases, surgery can significantly improve symptoms, remove the tumor completely, or reduce its size to make other treatments more effective. Advanced surgical techniques have increased success rates and reduced complications.

Q2. How is glioma treated?

Glioma treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The treatment plan depends on the glioma’s grade and location. Low-grade gliomas may need surgery alone, while high-grade gliomas often require aggressive combined therapy.

Q3. What are the treatment options for brain tumors and gliomas?

Treatment options include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation therapy to destroy the remaining cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to slow or stop tumor growth
• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy in select cases
• Rehabilitation therapies are also used to support recovery.

Q4. What is radiation therapy, and when is it used for brain tumors?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill or shrink tumor cells. It’s used after surgery to destroy any leftover cells, or as a primary treatment when surgery isn’t possible. It’s also used to slow the growth of inoperable or recurrent tumors.

Q5. How does Sakra World Hospital treat brain tumors and gliomas?

Sakra World Hospital uses advanced neuro-navigation systems, minimally invasive techniques, intraoperative monitoring, and high-precision radiation therapy for treating brain tumors and gliomas. Their multidisciplinary team ensures personalized care combining surgery, radiation, and medical oncology for optimal outcomes.