Brain tumours are the abnormal and uncontrollable growth of cells in the parts of the brain. About two third of them are benign and the rest of them are cancerous. There are more than 120 types of brain tumours and over 1.5 million new cases of brain tumours are diagnosed each year.
Brain tumour surgery has witnessed remarkable advancements over the past decade, providing new hope for patients and improving outcomes. With innovations in surgical techniques, technology, and recovery processes, brain tumour surgeries are becoming more effective and less invasive.
Let’s explore symptoms, causes, types of surgeries, recovery expectations, and costs associated with brain tumour surgery.
What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Tumour?
Brain tumour symptoms can vary widely depending on the location, size, and type of the tumour. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Persistent headaches, often worse in the morning or after sleeping
- Seizures
- Memory or cognitive problems
- Difficulty balancing or walking
- Vision problems, such as blurred or double vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in speech, hearing, or ability to express language
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation, as early detection improves treatment outcomes.
As Dr. Vikas Gupta notes, “Early detection is crucial in the battle against brain tumours. If you notice any of these symptoms—persistent headaches, seizures, memory problems, or changes in speech, hearing, or vision—don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of a successful recovery.”
What Causes Brain Tumours?
The exact cause of brain tumours is still not fully understood. However, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing one:
- Genetic mutations: Changes in DNA can trigger abnormal cell growth in the brain.
- Radiation exposure: Previous exposure to radiation, especially to the head, increases the risk of brain tumours.
- Family history: Having a family history of brain tumours may increase the risk.
- Weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing certain types of brain tumours.
While the causes are not fully clear, understanding these risk factors helps in prevention and early diagnosis.
One of Dr. Vikas’s patients shares, “I was diagnosed with a brain tumour and was terrified of what lay ahead. After consulting with Dr. Vikas, I felt reassured by his expertise and compassion. He explained the latest breakthroughs in brain tumour surgery, including the minimally invasive techniques he would use. The surgery was a success, and my recovery was much faster than I expected. Dr. Vikas and his team provided exceptional care every step of the way. I am incredibly grateful to him for giving me a second chance at life.”
How Successful Are Brain Tumour Surgeries?
Brain tumour surgeries are generally quite successful, with advancements in technology significantly improving outcomes. The success rate depends on various factors, including the type and location of the tumour, the patient’s overall health, and the experience of the surgical team.
Recent breakthroughs, such as awake brain surgery and minimally invasive robotic-assisted techniques, have contributed to higher success rates by preserving essential brain functions while removing tumours. The use of intraoperative MRI allows surgeons to see real-time images during surgery, ensuring more accurate tumour removal.
What are the latest advancements in brain tumour surgery techniques?
There have been huge advancements in brain tumour surgery, and several types of brain tumour surgeries are now available. The choice of procedure depends on the tumour’s size, type, and location. Some of the most common brain tumour surgeries include:
- Craniotomy: The most traditional method, where a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain.
- Endoscopic brain surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and tools inserted through small incisions.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery: A non-invasive procedure using focused radiation to target and destroy tumours.
- Awake brain surgery: Performed while the patient is awake to ensure vital brain functions like speech and movement are not affected during the removal of the tumour.
The type of surgery will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the expertise of the surgical team.
How Long Is the Recovery Time After Brain Tumour Surgery?
Recovery time after brain tumour surgery varies depending on the type of surgery, the patient’s health, and the complexity of the procedure.
For traditional open surgeries like craniotomy, recovery might take several weeks to months. In contrast, minimally invasive surgeries typically offer faster recovery times, with patients often returning to normal activities within a few weeks.
After surgery, patients usually experience fatigue and headaches, but rehabilitation therapies, including physical and cognitive therapies, are often recommended to help with a smoother recovery.
What Is the Cost of Brain Tumour Surgery in India?
The cost of brain tumour surgery in India can vary widely depending on the type of procedure, the expertise of the surgeon, the hospital facilities, and the location. On average, it costs between INR 2,00,000 and INR 10,00,000 (approximately USD 2,400 to USD 12,000).
Stereotactic radiosurgery or other non-invasive procedures typically range from INR 1,50,000 to INR 5,00,000 (about USD 1,800 to USD 6,000).
Advanced procedures like awake brain surgery or robotic-assisted surgery are generally more expensive, ranging from INR 6,00,000 to INR 10,00,000 (approximately USD 7,200 to USD 12,000).
It is advisable to consult with healthcare providers for a detailed cost breakdown, including pre-surgery consultations, diagnostic tests, anaesthesia, and post-operative care.
Conclusion
Brain tumour surgery has advanced significantly in recent years, with pioneering innovations making it safer and more effective. From understanding the causes and symptoms to choosing the right type of surgery, it’s essential to be well-informed about the process.
Although brain tumour surgery costs can be high, the advancements in technology and techniques offer new hope for improved survival and quality of life. If you or a loved one is facing a brain tumour diagnosis, consult a specialist to discuss the best treatment options available based on the latest breakthroughs.
FAQs
1. Can International Patients Opt for Brain Tumour Surgery in India?
Yes, India offers advanced care for international patients with various support packages.
2. Is Brain Tumour Surgery Covered by Health Insurance in India?
Many health insurance plans cover brain tumour surgery, but coverage varies by policy.
3. How Long is the Typical Hospital Stay After Brain Tumour Surgery?
The hospital stay typically ranges from 2 to 5 days, depending on the surgery type and recovery progress.
4. How Soon Can I Resume Normal Activities After Brain Tumour Surgery?
Most patients can return to normal activities within a between 4-8 weeks to several months, depending on recovery and rehabilitation.
5. What Is the Success Rate of Brain Tumour Surgery?
Success rates for brain tumour surgery can range from 70% to 90%.
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