Awake Brain Tumour Surgeries
Awake brain tumour surgery, also known as awake craniotomy, is a highly specialized procedure performed while the patient is awake. This technique is primarily used for tumors located in critical brain areas controlling speech, movement, or sensory functions. By keeping the patient conscious, surgeons can monitor brain activity in real-time, ensuring maximum tumor removal while preserving essential neurological functions.
This advanced surgical approach enhances safety, reduces post-operative deficits, and improves the patient's quality of life. It is commonly used for gliomas, metastatic tumors, and tumors near the brain's functional areas.
Conditions Treated with Awake Brain Tumour Surgeries
Awake brain tumour surgery is recommended for patients with tumors affecting vital brain functions.
- Gliomas in eloquent brain regions
- Metastatic brain tumors near functional areas
- Tumors affecting speech, motor skills, or cognition
- Recurrent brain tumors requiring precise excision
Performing the surgery while the patient is awake allows neurosurgeons to assess critical functions during tumor removal, reducing the risk of post-operative neurological impairment.
How Awake Brain Tumour Surgery Works
The procedure starts with detailed preoperative imaging, such as functional MRI and brain mapping, to identify the tumor and surrounding vital structures. Under local anesthesia and mild sedation, the patient remains awake and responsive during key parts of the surgery.
Neurosurgeons stimulate specific brain areas while monitoring speech, movement, and cognitive functions in real-time. This approach allows them to maximize tumor removal while ensuring essential functions remain intact. Post-surgery, most patients recover faster with reduced neurological complications.
