Brain Tumours
Brain tumours can grow in the tissue inside the skull or spinal column of the central nervous system. Those that originate in the brain (primary brain tumours) can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Tumours that begin elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain are known as metastatic brain tumours.
Symptoms
A tumour can destroy or disrupt healthy cell function. It can place pressure on sensitive tissue and block the flow of blood and other fluids, causing pain and inflammation. A tumour can also interfere with normal nerve signalling to and from the brain. People may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Blurred vision
- Hearing loss
- Balance and co-ordination difficulties
- Loss of sense of smell
- Difficulties with concentration and memory
- Seizures
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Speech difficulties
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Brain tumours are often discovered when patients present to their GP with some or all of the above symptoms. GPs may order diagnostic tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. In other cases, patients may be referred directly to the emergency department of their local hospital or to a neurosurgeon for urgent assessment and further investigation.
Benign tumours can often be removed and seldom grow back or spread to other parts of the body. However, they can press on sensitive areas of the brain and cause serious health problems. In some cases, they may be life-threatening or undergo malignant transformation.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. Patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery usually receive radiation therapy or other forms of treatment.
Surgical techniques for brain tumours have improved significantly in recent decades due to advances in technology. These include high-powered intra-operative microscopes, neuronavigation for precise tumour localisation, advanced neuroendoscopic equipment for minimally invasive approaches and tumour resections, and, in some cases, fluorescence-guided imaging.
The aim of surgery is to remove the brain tumour as completely as possible. However, this is not always achievable due to the tumour’s location or its involvement with healthy brain tissue. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to establish a diagnosis and guide further treatment.
Recovery
Brain surgery varies in complexity depending on the type, size, and location of the tumour.
Dr Tollesson works in conjunction with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including radiologists, oncologists, pathologists, ophthalmologists, speech pathologists, rehabilitation consultants, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, to provide the most appropriate care throughout your pre- and post-operative recovery.
Risks and Complications
Although all surgical procedures carry risks, Dr Tollesson will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the most appropriate treatment option for your condition. Outcomes vary between patients, and early diagnosis can improve the likelihood of successful treatment.
