Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection Brain Surgery

Candidates for a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection

A brain tumor is an irregular growth of cells that may have originated from the brain tissue (primary) or may have spread from another area of the body affected by cancer (metastasis). Brain tumors can either be benign, meaning the tumor is not cancerous, or may be malignant, meaning the tumor does carry cancerous cells. Both forms can be potentially life-threatening depending on placement and rate of growth. Many brain tumors can be successfully resected.

The World Health Organization (WHO) took the more than 120 types of brain tumors into consideration when developing a classification and grading system designed to streamline brain tumor communications, treatments and potential outcomes. During a biopsy, the cell type and grade are identified to classify the tumor. Depending on the cell type, grade, size and location of the tumor, a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection may be the recommended course of treatment and will likely occur in conjunction with various other treatments, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

The neurosurgeon will also take into account the patient’s age and overall health. Surgery may be recommended if observation of the tumor reveals rapid growth, if symptoms worsen or if medications have become ineffective. The goal of surgery is to resect as much of the tumor as possible without causing major injury to the brain and will help to relieve pressure on the skull.

What is a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection?

In cases where a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection is ideal, the goal is to fully remove the tumor. The tumor, along with a small amount of healthy tissue surrounding it, is completely removed when possible. The procedure is performed through a “keyhole” incision utilizing robotic navigation assistance for a minimally invasive approach.

The neurosurgeon will begin by creating a small incision in the scalp to access the skull. A craniotomy is then performed to remove a portion of the skull and gain access to the tumor. Guided by imaging technologies to verify placement, the robotic navigation system assists in accessing the tumor, mapping its borders and determining how much of the tumor can be resected. Ideally, if the entire edge of the tumor can be resected, a margin of healthy tissue surrounding the tumor is also resected to confirm its removal and prevent regrowth.

Sometimes, only part of the tumor can be resected if it is located in a critical area of the brain and injury to the brain would be unavoidable. Removal of a portion of the tumor can help to relieve pressure and symptoms, and surgery helps to refine the diagnosis and map the affected areas. If the entire tumor could not be resected through surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be able to treat the remaining cells.

Results of a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection Procedure

The results of a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection will vary from patient to patient. A team of doctors is generally involved in the medical care of a patient suffering from a tumor and may recommend home health care during recovery. Changes in mental status may be evaluated and treated accordingly by professionals. Canes and walkers may be recommended for patients who struggle with walking. Driving may be restricted for patients taking anti-seizure medication. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy may also be recommended during recovery.

Rehabilitation from the treatment of a brain tumor may take some time, as movement, speech, vision, critical thinking and cognitive abilities may have been affected. These functions may be improved or corrected over time.

What are the risks of a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection?

The primary risk of a brain tumor is recurrence. Depending on the type of tumor, grade of severity, size and location, tumors will respond differently to surgery and other treatments. Ideally, the tumor will remain in remission, where the tumor cells cease to grow and multiply. A recurrent tumor may grow back after being destroyed through treatments, or a new tumor may grow in its place.

Periods of remission will also vary. Benign tumors are less likely to recur than malignant tumors. Consistent, life-long monitoring is typically recommended for patients who have suffered a brain tumor. Follow-up MRI or CT scans may be performed every three to six months or annually following a Minimally Invasive Tumor Resection.