Brain Tumor Surgery

Brain tumors are formed by the accumulation of abnormal cells in or around the brain. Tumors can be benign or malignant and vary in size, location, and cell type. Brain tumor surgery is one of the most common and effective approaches for treating these tumors.

Brain Tumors and the Necessity for Surgical Intervention

Brain tumors are generally classified as follows:

• Primary Brain Tumors: Tumors that begin in the brain. The most common types are gliomas, meningiomas, and pituitary tumors.
• Secondary (Metastatic) Brain Tumors: Tumors formed by cancer spreading from other parts of the body to the brain. Cancers such as lung, breast, kidney, and melanoma can metastasize to the brain.

Brain tumors may require surgical treatment because growing tumors can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and pose a life-threatening risk. Before surgery, factors such as the tumor’s location, type, size, and the patient’s general health are evaluated.

Goals of Brain Tumor Surgery

The main objectives of brain tumor surgery are:

1. Complete Removal of the Tumor: If the tumor is benign, the goal is to remove the entire tumor, thereby minimizing the risk of regrowth.
2. Preserving Brain Function: Since the brain is a delicate organ, there may be a risk of functional losses after surgery. It is crucial for the surgeon to carefully evaluate the tumor’s location and develop strategies to preserve brain functions before the operation.
3. Symptom Relief: In some cases, the tumor cannot be completely removed. However, surgical intervention can halt tumor growth and alleviate symptoms (such as headaches, seizures, and motor dysfunctions).

Brain Tumor Surgery Methods

Brain tumor surgery can be performed using various methods. There are two main surgical approaches:

1. Classical Surgery (Craniotomy):
   • In this method, the skull is temporarily opened (craniotomy) to access the tumor. After the tumor is removed, the skull is replaced and typically closed with sutures.
   • This type of surgery is usually used for large or deeply located tumors.
2. Minimally Invasive Surgery:
   • In this method, a small incision is made, and the surgeon uses microscopic instruments or endoscopic devices to reach the tumor. Endoscopic surgery is generally used for sellar region tumors such as pituitary adenoma.
   • Since this approach is less invasive, recovery time for patients is usually quicker.
3. Stereotactic Biopsy: It is the process of taking a biopsy from deeply located or hard-to-reach lesions through a small incision for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Post-Surgery Recovery Process

The recovery process after brain tumor surgery varies depending on the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the surgery, and the type of tumor. Patients are generally monitored in the hospital for several days after the surgery. During this period, brain functions are observed, and the risk of infection is monitored.

The following are important factors during the recovery process:

• Neurological Recovery: Some patients may experience speech, movement, or vision disturbances after surgery. These issues can often be treated with physical therapy or rehabilitation.
• Seizure Control: Brain tumors can sometimes cause seizures. Post-surgery seizure management may be necessary.
• Psychosocial Support: Brain surgery can affect patients’ psychological state. Therefore, psychological support is also an important part of the treatment process.

Risks and Complications

There are potential risks associated with brain tumor surgery, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Brain edema (swelling)
• Nerve damage and motor function loss
• Speech, vision, or memory problems

These risks can vary depending on the surgeon’s experience and the location of the tumor.

Brain tumor surgery plays a crucial role in treating tumors. Thanks to advances in technology, surgeons can remove tumors with greater precision and effectiveness. However, like any surgical intervention, brain tumor surgery carries certain risks. The evaluations made collaboratively by patients and surgeons are critical for developing the most appropriate treatment plan. Post-surgery monitoring and treatment processes significantly increase the chances of full recovery.