Brain tumour is the result of an abnormal growth of cells in the brain tissues. The tumours may be benign or cancerous.
Cancerous tumours are known to be primary, if they originate in the brain itself. In some cases, cancer cells that have originated in some other organ of the body may spread to the brain, thus causing a brain tumor. These are known as secondary or metastatic brain tumours.
The type and nature of the tumour, its size, and the precise tissue or area of the brain that has been affected, are some of the factors considered while determining the appropriate treatment options to deal with this problem. These options may include the use of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, radiosurgery, etc.
Brain Tumour Surgery Facts
Surgery is considered to be a good option, in cases where the tumour has formed at a location that is easily accessible through surgical techniques. Here, the surgeon would be able to cover as much ground as possible in removing the tumour. The work becomes easier if the tumour is small, as it can be completely detached from the surrounding brain tissue.
However, this does not happen in all cases. Some surgical procedures may become risky when the tumour is located in a complex or sensitive part of the brain. In such a case, the surgeon will attempt to remove as much of the mass permissible, after which, the procedure may threaten the safety of the patient.
Complications related to brain tumour surgery
- A common side effect or complication that may be noticed in patients having undergone a brain tumour surgery is headache which makes the patient uncomfortable.
- The nature of the complication depends on the location of the tumour in the brain. For instance, if the tumour is near the nerves that connect the eyes to the brain, and the surgery was done at the same place, then the chances are high that the person may lose his vision.
- In some cases, the surgical treatment may have its impact on the cognitive abilities of the patient. He/she may face difficulty in speaking, thinking, or may even have a change in personality.
- Movement and breathing pattern may also be affected.
- Infection and bleeding may occur at the site of surgery, in certain cases.
- One may experience the onset of seizures.
- One worrisome complication that may occur post surgery is edema. This condition refers to the accumulation of fluid. In this case, the fluid may be the cerebrospinal fluid or blood that may build up in the brain. To deal with this, the surgeon may recommend another surgery, in order to drain the fluid.
The occurrence and severity of these complications varies significantly with each individual case. It is highly recommended to seek appropriate professional consultation of a neurologist
before deciding whether to opt for a brain surgery or not. The concerned doctor can accurately weigh the pros and cons in your particular case, after considering the relevant parameters like age, medical history, tumour size, etc.