Craniotomy with tumor excision is a vital neurosurgical procedure designed to remove tumors from the brain. This surgery can be lifesaving and is essential for alleviating symptoms caused by brain tumors. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of brain tumors, prevention strategies, the surgical procedure, and how to manage post-operative care. We’ll also highlight why BM Empire Multispecialist Hospital is the leading choice for neurosurgery in Lagos.
Causes of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors can arise from various factors, including:
Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may inherit genetic conditions that increase their risk of developing brain tumors, such as neurofibromatosis or Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and other environmental toxins has been linked to an increased risk of brain tumors.
Age: While brain tumors can occur at any age, some types are more common in children, while others are more frequently diagnosed in adults.
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive medications, are at higher risk.
Prevention of Brain Tumors
While not all brain tumors can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices may reduce risk:
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco can contribute to overall health and potentially lower the risk of tumors.
Limit Exposure to Harmful Substances: Reducing exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and other toxic chemicals may help minimize risk.
Protect Against Radiation: Limiting unnecessary exposure to radiation, particularly during medical imaging, can be beneficial.
The Craniotomy with Tumor Excision Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves several steps:
Pre-operative Assessment: The neurosurgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies (MRI or CT scans) to identify the tumor’s location and size.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is completely unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
Surgical Preparation: The surgical site is cleansed and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the scalp and carefully removes a portion of the skull (the cranium) to access the brain.
Tumor Excision: The neurosurgeon locates the tumor and removes it, taking care to minimize damage to surrounding healthy brain tissue. This may involve using specialized instruments and techniques to ensure complete removal.
Closure: After the tumor is excised, the surgeon replaces the section of the skull and closes the incision in the scalp with sutures or staples. A dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.
Post-operative Management
Effective post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery:
Monitoring: Patients are closely monitored in the hospital for any signs of complications, such as infection, bleeding, or neurological changes.
Pain Management: Pain relief medications are prescribed to help manage discomfort after surgery.
Physical Rehabilitation: Depending on the tumor’s location and the extent of surgery, a physical therapist may develop a rehabilitation plan to help restore function and mobility.
Activity Restrictions: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and driving for a specific period as they recover.
Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits with the neurosurgeon are crucial to monitor recovery and evaluate the success of the tumor excision.
Signs of Complications: Patients should be aware of signs of infection, increased headache, or changes in neurological status, and should seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Why Choose BM Empire Multispecialist Hospital?
For those facing the need for craniotomy with tumor excision or any neurosurgical procedure, BM Empire Multispecialist Hospital is the most preferred facility in Lagos. Located at 4, Amosu Street, Bode Thomas, Surulere, we offer:
Expert Care: Our team of experienced neurosurgeons is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care using the latest techniques and technologies.
Comprehensive Services: We provide a wide range of neurosurgical interventions, ensuring that all patient needs are met in one location.
Patient-Centric Approach: We prioritize patient comfort and education throughout your treatment journey, ensuring you are well-informed every step of the way.
Conclusion
Craniotomy with tumor excision is a critical procedure for managing brain tumors and alleviating their effects on health. Understanding the causes, the surgical process, and the importance of aftercare can greatly enhance recovery outcomes. For expert neurosurgical care in Lagos, look no further than BM Empire Multispecialist Hospital. Chat Us on WhatsApp or call 09068699032