Brain Tumour Surgery

 All You Need to Know About - Brain Tumour Surgery

When an abnormal growth of cells takes place inside the brain or the vault of the skull, it is referred to as a brain tumour. The human skull is a rigid structure, any unusual growth in this limited space can cause serious problems. This can also cause brain damage, which is life-threatening.

In most cases, the unrolled cell division happens within the brain, but it can sometimes occur in in blood vessels, lymphatic tissue, in the cranial nerves, in the brain envelopes (meninges), skull, pituitary gland, or from congenital vest cells and pineal gland.

What are the Risk Factors?

The risk factors include:

• Though it is rare to inherit brain tumour, family history can increase the chances by 5% to 10%
• The risk of developing a tumour increases with age
• Exposure to certain chemicals
• Exposure to ionising radiation

What Symptoms should one lookout for?

When it comes to symptoms, it largely depends on the size and the location of the tumour. Most people feel a pressure on or surrounding the brain. The common symptoms are listed below:

•     Headaches, from early morning to even when you are sleeping
•     Blurred vision
•     Seizures
•     The weakening of a limb
•     The weakening of part of the face
•     Frequent incidents of memory loss, confusion, reduced alertness
•     Loss of balance
•     Weakness in muscles
•     Hand tremor
•     Difficulty in reading and writing

How is a Brain Tumour Diagnosed?

A look at your medical history, present condition and a physical exam would give the neurologist an idea of the problem. However, the doctor may also examine and evaluate your:

• Eyes
• Strength of muscles
• Memory
• Coordination
• Ability to do mental calculations

After this, a few tests and investigations may be required, such as:

•     CT Scan
•     MRI
•     X-rays of the skull
•     Angiography
•     Biopsy

Can a Brain Tumour be Treated?

The key factors that decide the course of treatment are:

• Your general health
• Type of the tumour
• Size of the tumour
•  Location of the tumour

In most cases of malignant brain tumours, surgery is recommended, so that the tumour can be removed without damaging or disturbing the healthy parts within the brain. When the location of a tumour doesn’t allow easy removal, even a partial removal may prove beneficial. The surgical process may be combined with treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment can help in averting complications like the growth of the tumour. If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a brain tumour, see your doctor today.

Blog Reviewed By: Dr Manish Vaish 
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