Skull Base Surgery in Hyderabad
The skull base is the complicated area in the human body where blood vessels, the spinal cord, and nerves pass through it. The health issues or diseases that occur in this region need to be treated using specialized tools and expertise. A skull base surgery is an evolving minimally invasive procedure used to remove cancerous and non-cancerous tumors at the base and bottom of the skull. The main goal of skull base surgery is to reach this delicate area without affecting the normal brain.
When is Skull Base Surgery Recommended?
Skull base surgery is effective at treating the following conditions:
- Cysts that developed since the birth
- Pituitary tumors
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Meningiomas
- Acoustic neuroma
- Arteriovenous malformations
- Cerebral aneurysm
- Cerebrospinal fluid fistulas
- Chordomas
- Sinonasal tumors
- Hemifacial spasms
Who Can Perform Skull Base Surgery?
The skull consists of several important and complex structures such as the brain, blood vessels, and several nerves from the brain to control facial and head functions. Hence the surgery possesses possible risks and the procedure requires a team of specialized doctors such as an ENT surgeon, neurosurgeons, radiologists, etc. In some cases, Maxillofacial surgeons and plastic and reconstructive surgeons may also be required. If the procedure is performed on a child, then a pediatric specialist is also required.
The surgeon operates the procedure from the natural holes such as ears, nose, and mouth or by making a small incision on the eyelid or forehead.
Different Types of Skull Base Surgery
Skull base surgery can be performed in two ways namely:
- Open skull base surgery: It is also known as the traditional approach or craniotomy. This surgery involves removing some parts of the brain to access the area to be treated. For this procedure, the surgeon needs to make incisions on the facial area and the skull. To perform this surgery, it requires good technical skills to prevent any damage to the structures around the skull base. During the procedure, the bone flap will be removed to access the tumor. Using surgical scissors, the surgeon makes an incision in the dura matter to view the brain. To get a clear view of the brain structure and to treat the brain abnormality, the surgeon uses specialized technology and a microscope. Along with this, the surgeon also makes use of the images of MRI and CT scans. Once the abnormality is treated, the bone flap is replaced and the incision on the dura matter is closed by stitching the incisions.
- Endoscopic or minimally invasive surgery: This surgery does not require any large incisions and it is less invasive. The procedure is performed through the nose or mouth to remove tumor using an endoscope device. The procedure involves inserting an endoscope through one of the nostrils. The endoscope also has a camera and light to let the doctor view the area clearly. The surgeon also makes use of other instruments to remove or repair the brain abnormality. Once the abnormality is treated, the incisions will be stitched.
When you decide on skull base surgery, the doctor will determine if you are suitable for surgery based on the location of the tumor.
What Happens After Skull Base Surgery?
If you undergo a craniotomy, you need to stay in the hospital for around a week. If you had endoscopic skull base surgery, then you need to stay in the hospital for one or two days. You may be given medications to reduce pain, swelling, nausea, and sometimes seizures. Even after surgery, you may need to closely work with the medical team to return to your daily routine.
In some cases, you may need radiation therapy or chemotherapy. You also need to schedule several follow-up appointments with your medical team. The surgeon may also conduct imaging tests to ensure that the growth is not reoccurring. If you experience any signs during recovery, you should immediately inform your doctor.
The recovery from craniotomy surgery takes a long time. Whereas patients who had minimally invasive skull base procedure can perform light exercises after two weeks of surgery.
Meet Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy for Skull Base Surgery in Hyderabad
Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy is one of the best neurosurgeons in Hyderabad. He works closely with other surgeons to perform skull base surgery. We perform surgery using minimally invasive methods and you can count on us for the same. We also work with other teams to determine the right treatment based on your condition. We focus on providing comprehensive care to patients at an affordable price. To discuss your condition, call us and schedule your appointment.