506 doctors in India — verified profiles, ratings, fees and clinic or online consultation.
MBBS, MD - Medicine, DNB - General Medicine, MD - Neurology (USA)
Neurology
Dr. Mukesh Kumar is a Neurologist in Saket, Delhi and has an experience of 19 years in this field. Dr. Mukesh Kumar practices at Max Saket West Super Special…
MS - General Surgery, MBBS
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Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Dr. Shaiwal Khandelwal is a Thoracic (Chest) Surgeon and General Surgeon in Saket, Delhi and has an experience of 17 years in these fields. Dr. Shaiwal Khand…
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Brain tumor surgery is a neurosurgical procedure performed to remove abnormal growths (tumors) from the brain. Brain tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may affect brain function depending on their size and location.
The primary goal of brain tumor surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving healthy brain tissue and neurological function. In many cases, surgery is the first and most important step in treating brain tumors, followed by treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy if necessary.
Modern neurosurgical techniques allow surgeons to perform this procedure with high precision using advanced imaging systems, microscopes, and minimally invasive tools.
Doctors may recommend brain tumor surgery for several reasons, including:
● Removing the tumor completely when possible
● Reducing tumor size to relieve pressure on the brain
● Obtaining a biopsy sample for diagnosis
● Improving neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or vision problems
● Enhancing the effectiveness of other treatments like radiation or chemotherapy
Surgery can also improve a patient’s quality of life by relieving pressure inside the skull caused by the tumor.
Depending on the tumor’s location, size, and type, doctors may perform different surgical approaches:
1. Craniotomy
This is the most common type of brain tumor surgery. The surgeon temporarily removes a portion of the skull to access and remove the tumor.
2. Awake Brain Surgery
Also called awake craniotomy, this procedure is performed while the patient is awake but sedated. The surgeon asks the patient questions or performs tasks to monitor brain functions like speech and movement during surgery.
3. Endoscopic Brain Surgery
A minimally invasive technique where surgeons use a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) inserted through small openings in the skull, nose, or mouth to remove tumors.
4. MRI-Guided Laser Ablation
A laser is used to destroy tumor tissue using heat under MRI guidance.
5. Stereotactic Radiosurgery
A non-invasive treatment that uses focused radiation beams to destroy tumors without making an incision.
Before the surgery, doctors perform several tests and evaluations, including:
● MRI or CT scans to locate the tumor
● Functional MRI to identify important brain areas
● Blood tests and medical evaluation
● Neurological and cognitive tests
Patients are also instructed to stop certain medications and follow fasting instructions before surgery.
The exact steps depend on the type of surgery, but the general process includes:
1. Anesthesia – The patient is given general anesthesia or sedation.
2. Accessing the Brain – The surgeon makes an incision in the scalp and may remove a small part of the skull (craniotomy).
3. Tumor Localization – Advanced imaging systems help guide the surgeon to the exact tumor location.
4. Tumor Removal – Special microsurgical instruments remove all or part of the tumor.
5. Closure – The skull bone is replaced and secured with plates or screws, and the incision is closed.
In minimally invasive procedures, smaller incisions and specialized tools are used to reach and remove the tumor.
After surgery, patients are monitored in an intensive care or recovery unit. Recovery may include:
● Hospital stay of 2–7 days depending on the surgery
● Monitoring of brain function and vital signs
● Medications to control swelling, seizures, and pain
● Rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy
Most patients gradually return to daily activities over several weeks, although recovery from major surgery may take months.
Although brain tumor surgery is often lifesaving, it carries certain risks, including:
● Infection
● Bleeding
● Brain swelling
● Seizures
● Weakness or paralysis
● Speech or memory problems
● Vision changes
● Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid
Serious complications such as stroke or coma are rare but possible. The risk depends on the tumor’s location and the patient’s overall health.
The benefits of brain tumor surgery may include:
● Removal or reduction of tumor size
● Relief from neurological symptoms
● Accurate diagnosis through biopsy
● Improved effectiveness of other treatments
● Better quality of life and survival outcomes
No. Surgery is recommended when the tumor can be safely removed or when a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
The procedure typically takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the tumor’s size and complexity.
Patients are under anesthesia during the procedure, so they do not feel pain. Some discomfort may occur during recovery.
Most patients stay in the hospital between 2 and 7 days, depending on their condition and recovery progress.
Recovery varies from person to person. Many patients recover within 4–8 weeks, while more complex surgeries may require several months.
Yes, some tumors may recur. Doctors may recommend additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy to reduce this risk.
With modern techniques and experienced neurosurgeons, brain tumor surgery is generally safe, although it still carries certain risks.
Some patients require rehabilitation therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy to regain normal functions.