Brain Tumors

Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are diagnosed through a clinical exam and the results of tests such as CT and MRI. The neurosurgeon discusses available treatments with the patient. Treatments which neurosurgeons provide include surgical resection and Gamma Knife radiosurgery (click here for information on Gamma Knife).

Surgical Resection of Tumors Using Neuronavigation

Neuronavigation provides the neurosurgeon a probe, which when placed on or in the patients head, shows him what is just beyond the probe in all directions. The images are presented in 3D on a computer screen.

This information is helpful even before the surgery begins since it allows for planning the best approach to the tumor. During the procedure neuronavigation guides the neurosurgeon directly to the tumor and also informs him of the locations of sensitive structures within the brain.

In many cases neurosurgeons use an operating microscope to obtain the best view of the surgical field.

Neuronavigation console pinpointing the location of the tumor as the surgeon views the operative field through the microscope.

The neuronavigation probe allows the neurosurgeon 3D views of all structures beyond the probe.

Resection of a Brain Tumor

Fig. 1: Neuronavigation screen showing MRI of the suprasellar tumor in the axial, sagittal, and coronal views.

To view a movie of a portion of this surgery, click here.

Fig. 2: The neurosurgeon makes the skin incision and uses drills and saws to remove the bone.

Fig. 3: After this opening (craniotomy) has been made, the neurosurgeon brings in the operating microscope. Under the guidance of the neuronavigational system he carefully dissects tissue until the tumor is exposed.

Figs. 4, 5, and 6: The tumor is probed with a forceps and then removed. The illumination and magnification of the operating microscope allow the neurosurgeon great precision in approaching and removing tumors.

After the neurosurgeon is finished the patient is taken to the recovery room.