Brain Tumors
Most of the cells within our body stop growing and multiplying after reaching maturity. Tumors are composed of abnormal cells that continue to grow and multiply, and can cause irritation or damage to normal tissue. Brain tumors may be primary (originating within the brain or covering of the brain), or secondary (arising from somewhere else e.g. metastatic breast cancer). Brain tumors are rare. The symptoms vary with the size and location of the tumor, and may include headache, personality changes, nausea and vomiting, seizure, numbness, and weakness.
For more information, please visit:
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/media/fact/classification.asp
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/brain2.asp
Meningioma
Meningioma is one of the more common brain tumors, and arises from the dura (part of the meninges covering the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign, meaning that they are fairly well localized, are slow-growing and do not travel outside the brain. Due to the slow growing nature of meningiomas, they may reach a large size before diagnosis, and may surround blood vessels and nerves within the skull making removal difficult.
For more information, please visit:
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/meningiomas07.asp
Gliomas
Gliomas (see Astrocytomas) are also primary tumors originating within the substance of the brain. They range from very slow growing, low grade glioma to the very aggressive and rapidly growing
Glioblastoma Multiforme.
The treatment of cranial tumors is often a complex endeavor requiring neurosurgeons as well as medical and radiation oncologists. Using Stealth computer localization technology we can accurately localize tumors for biopsy or removal. The use of computer image guidance also allows for smaller incisions.
For more information, please visit:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_assisted_surgery
Pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors arise within the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. This structure is close to the optic nerves, and these rare tumors commonly present with visual problems. Pituitary tumors may also secrete substances that interfere with hormone production. These tumors may require surgical removal to help restore vision or to control abnormal hormone secretion. This is often accomplished by an approach through the nose using endoscopic and microscopic techniques.
The treatment of cranial tumors is often a complex endeavor requiring neurosurgeons as well as medical and radiation oncologists. Using Stealth computer localization technology we can accurately localize tumors for biopsy or removal. The use of computer image guidance also allows for smaller incisions.
For more information, please visit:
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/pituitary.asp
Head Injury
We treat all aspects of head injury from minor Concussion to severe Traumatic Brain Injury. This includes
Subdural Hematoma. We work in conjunction with our trauma service to help patients with multiple body injuries.
Hydrocephalus and Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a problem with the absorption and circulation of spinal fluid (CSF) that is produced normally in the brain. The treatment for Hydrocephalus involves placing a shunt or drainage device from the brain to the abdominal cavity. The use of programmable valves allows us to more accurately regulate the flow rate of spinal fluid that is appropriate for each patient.
For more information, please visit:
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/adult.asp
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal Neuralgia is a condition causing incapacitating facial pain. The treatment for this problem may require surgical intervention to control the pain when medical treatments fail. Several surgical techniques are available depending on the patient's age and medical condition.
For more information, please visit:
www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/trigeminal.asp
