Brain Tumor Surgery

Surgery is often the treatment of choice for accessible brain tumors. Accessible tumors are those which can be surgically removed without causing severe neurological damage. Tumors located in gray matter or deep within the brain may be less accessible.

The goal of surgery is to remove all visible tumor. Many benign tumors are treated only by surgery. Most malignant tumors require additional treatment. Malignant tumors lack distinct borders. They often invade nearby normal brain tissue. Tumor cells may also spread throughout the brain and spine by way of the cerebrospinal fluid. But, even partial tumor removal is beneficial.

The purpose of surgery is:

to remove as much tumor as possible - partial removal (debulking) of a tumor provides relief of symptoms, improved quality of life, and a smaller tumor burden for other treatment modalities
to help establish an exact diagnosis - removal of the sample of tumor to be examined under a microscope in the laboratory provides an exact diagnosis
to determine the extent of the tumor - the neurosurgeon sees the actual tumor in the brain

Biopsy alone is performed when the tumor is considered inoperable or when surgery must be delayed. Resection (surgical removal of a tumor) is the treatment of choice whenever possible.

Resection of a Tumor

If the tumor is accessible and the patient's general health is good, resection is often the treatment of choice. The goal of surgery is to remove as much tumor as possible.

The most commonly performed surgery for removal of a brain tumor is a craniotomy. The neurosurgeon makes an incision into the scalp. Removal of a piece of bone exposes the area of brain over the tumor. Location and removal of the tumor then takes place. After resection and bone replacement, the skin is sewn together. Sometimes, replacing the bone is not necessary as the muscles in the back of the head are very strong and can protect the brain by themselves.

As you read this information, keep in mind that all treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual. Only your physician can provide you with a detailed list of your specific indications, precautions, potential adverse events, and other important medical information.

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