Stereotactic Surgery: A Seamless Journey to the Brain’s Target

Stereotactic surgery is a technique used to reach particularly sensitive areas. This method allows targeting areas using MR or CT imaging. Stereotactic surgery provides smaller incisions and minimal tissue damage.

Microsurgery: Precise Touches with Enlarged Eyes

Microsurgery is a type of surgery where the surgeon works under an enlarged microscope to remove the tumor. This method causes less damage to the surrounding healthy tissues. Each part requires incredible precision and meticulousness.

Endoscopic Surgery: Seeing the Unseen

Endoscopic surgery is a technique where an endoscope is inserted into the tumor. This means smaller incisions and faster recovery. It can help effectively remove certain tumors.

Radiosurgery: Targeting the Tumor with Radiation

Radiosurgery is a minimally invasive treatment option. It targets the tumor using high doses of radiation. In some cases, it is also used post-surgery.

Awake Surgery

In some cases, the patient may be kept awake during surgery. This helps the surgeon monitor brain functions and minimize the risk of damaging important areas before removing the tumor.

Biopsy: Confirming the Diagnosis

A biopsy is performed to determine the type and characteristics of the tumor. This is important for creating the correct treatment plan.

Fundamental Steps of the Craniotomy Procedure

1. Patient Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient is usually evaluated by an anesthesiologist and is performed under general anesthesia. The patient does not feel pain or consciousness since they are asleep.
2. Examination of the Skull: The scalp area is prepared sterilely until the skull is exposed. The skin over the skull is cut according to the tumor’s location. The neurosurgeon uses pre-obtained brain images (MRI or CT scans) to determine the tumor’s position. Then, a specific area of the skull is removed or temporarily lifted using modern devices and surgical tools to access a particular area.
3. Tumor Removal: Once the skull is opened, the surgeon reaches the area where the tumor is located. The surgeon carefully evaluates the tumor’s boundaries and the surrounding healthy brain tissue. Microsurgical techniques or other specialized surgical tools may be used to remove the tumor.
4. Control and Stopping Bleeding: After the tumor is removed, the neurosurgeon will inspect the entire area for control purposes. If there is any bleeding, it is stopped, and stitches or tissue glue are used if necessary.
5. Replacing the Skull Bone: After the tumor is removed, the piece of the skull is carefully replaced and fixed with stitches or plates. This ensures the stability of the skull.
6. Recovery and Observation: The patient may be taken to the intensive care unit after surgery and closely monitored. Medications may be given to control brain swelling and reduce the risk of infection during the postoperative period.

The craniotomy procedure can vary depending on the type, location of the tumor, and the patient’s health condition. Additionally, some patients may require postoperative rehabilitation.

Commonly Asked Questions After Brain Tumor Surgery

• Pain and Discomfort: Pain or discomfort after surgery is normal. Depending on the surgical site, headaches or other discomforts may occur. It may be necessary to use the medications recommended by your neurosurgeon to manage the pain.
• Recovery Process: The recovery process after brain surgeries can vary from person to person. Generally, patients are kept under observation in the intensive care unit for some time post-surgery. The duration of returning home and resuming normal life depends on the type of surgery and the patient’s overall health condition.
• Follow-Up and Checkups: Regular checkups are important in the postoperative period. Your neurosurgeon will recommend periodic consultations to evaluate and monitor the recurrence of the brain tumor.
• Brain Swelling (Edema) and Medications: Swelling in the brain can occur after brain surgeries. This condition is usually managed with medications. Your neurosurgeon may recommend medications such as corticosteroids with an edema-reducing effect if necessary.
• Wound Care: The surgical incision should be regularly checked and cleaned. You should follow your neurosurgeon’s recommendations to prevent wound infection.
• Personal Care and Activities: Rest, good nutrition, and adequate fluid intake are important during the postoperative period. The process of starting physical activity and limitations vary according to your neurosurgeon’s recommendations.
• Brain Functions: Brain tumor surgeries may sometimes lead to temporary cognitive or neurological problems. You should communicate with your neurosurgeon about such issues.
• Radiation or Chemotherapy: Additional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy may be necessary in the postoperative period. The type and duration of these treatments depend on the type and stage of the tumor.
• Support Systems: Psychological support and rehabilitation services can be important after brain tumor surgery. Receiving support from family and friends is also important during this period.
• Looking to the Future: Planning your future after brain tumor surgery is important. Following your neurosurgeon’s recommendations and treatment plan is crucial for a healthier future.

Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy After Brain Tumor Surgeries

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are effective treatment options to target and control brain tumors. However, each patient’s condition is different, so the treatments used and their timing are determined based on the tumor’s type, stage, and the patient’s overall health condition.

Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy):

• What is it? Radiotherapy is a treatment method that uses high-energy beams to target cancer cells.
• How Does It Work? Radiotherapy kills or controls the growth of cancer cells. Radiotherapy for brain tumors involves concentrated radiation doses to the tumor area.
• When is it Used? Radiotherapy can be used post-surgery when the tumor cannot be completely removed, or when there is a high risk of tumor recurrence. Additionally, radiotherapy may be a standard option for treating certain tumor types.

Chemotherapy:

• What is it? Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or slow down the growth of cancer cells.
• How Does It Work? Chemotherapy drugs target cancer cells and often work systematically by traveling to different parts of the body. Chemotherapy for brain tumors may involve the use of specific drugs.
• When is it Used? Chemotherapy may sometimes be used post-surgery or in combination with radiotherapy for treating brain tumors. Additionally, it can be used as an initial treatment for certain tumor types.