Brain Surgery or Neurosurgery

Brain surgery is a complex medical procedure aimed at diagnosing, treating, or repairing abnormalities in the brain. It can be life-saving and dramatically improve a patient’s quality of life. Thanks to advances in medical technology, brain surgeries today are safer, more precise, and involve quicker recovery times. In this guide, we’ll explore what brain surgery is, why it's performed, and the different types of brain surgery commonly used.

What Is Brain Surgery?

Brain surgery, also known as neurosurgery, involves any surgical intervention within the brain, skull, or nearby structures like blood vessels and nerves. It may be required to remove tumors, repair damaged areas, treat neurological disorders, or relieve pressure caused by injuries or bleeding.

Why Is Brain Surgery Performed?

Brain surgery may be necessary for various reasons, including:

• Brain tumors (benign or malignant)
• Aneurysms or abnormal blood vessels
• Brain hemorrhages (bleeding)
• Epilepsy that doesn’t respond to medication
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Hydrocephalus (fluid build-up in the brain)
• Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders

Types of Brain Surgery / Neurosurgery

There are several types of brain surgery, each tailored to the nature of the condition:

1. Craniotomy

A craniotomy is the most common form of brain surgery. During this procedure, a portion of the skull is temporarily removed to access the brain. Surgeons use craniotomy to remove tumors, repair aneurysms, or remove blood clots.

Main Highlights :

• Performed under general anesthesia
• May involve computer-guided imaging (neuronavigation)
• Skull bone is replaced after the surgery

2. Endoscopic Brain Surgery

Also known as minimally invasive brain surgery, endoscopic techniques use small incisions and a tiny camera (endoscope) to reach the brain. It’s often used to treat tumors, cysts, and hydrocephalus.

Benefits include:

• Smaller incisions
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster recovery time

3. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Deep Brain Stimulation involves implanting electrodes into specific brain regions. A small device, like a pacemaker, sends electrical impulses to regulate abnormal brain activity. DBS is often used for Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders.

Highlights:

• Reversible and adjustable treatment
• Reduces symptoms of movement disorders
• Minimally invasive procedure

4. Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Despite the name, stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-invasive technique that uses targeted radiation beams to treat brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and other abnormalities without opening the skull.

Advantages:

• No surgical incision
• Outpatient procedure
• Minimal recovery time

5. Brain Biopsy

A brain biopsy involves removing a small piece of brain tissue to diagnose conditions like brain cancer, infections, or inflammatory diseases. It can be performed as an open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques.

Quick facts:

• Crucial for accurate diagnosis
• Guides further treatment planning

Risks and Recovery from Brain Surgery

Like any major surgery, brain procedures come with risks such as infection, bleeding, memory issues, or neurological deficits. However, advancements in surgical methods and postoperative care have significantly improved outcomes.

Recovery :

• Follow your neurosurgeon’s post-op care instructions
• Attend physical therapy if recommended
• Monitor for any unusual symptoms and report them immediately

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health, but many people return to normal activities within weeks to months.