Is brain tumor surgery painful?

No, the surgery itself is not painful because it is done under general anesthesia. Some discomfort may occur during the recovery period, which is managed with medications.

Are there risks involved in brain tumor surgery?

Yes, risks include infection, bleeding, swelling, neurological deficits, and seizures. Your surgeon will discuss these risks before the procedure.

What to Expect During Brain Tumor Surgery

Q: What happens during brain tumor surgery?

During brain tumor surgery, a neurosurgeon removes part or all of the tumor. The procedure typically involves a craniotomy under general anesthesia and may include imaging guidance to preserve healthy brain tissue.

Q: How long does it take to recover from brain tumor surgery?

Recovery varies based on the tumor’s location and the complexity of the surgery. Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days and require several weeks to months of rehabilitation and monitoring.

When you're diagnosed with a brain tumor, the news can be overwhelming. However, knowing what to expect during brain tumor surgery can help you feel more prepared and at ease. At Continental Hospitals, we understand how daunting this journey can be. Our team of expert neurosurgeons and compassionate healthcare providers will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the best care possible. In this blog, we’ll take you through the stages of brain tumor surgery, from preparation to recovery, and explain why choosing Continental Hospitals is a smart decision for your health.

Understanding Brain Tumor Surgery

Brain tumor surgery is typically recommended when the tumor is accessible and can be removed without causing significant damage to surrounding brain tissue. The primary goal of the surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible to reduce symptoms and prevent further growth. This surgery is often performed by highly skilled neurosurgeons using advanced techniques and technology to ensure the best possible outcome.

Preparing for Brain Tumor Surgery

Before undergoing brain tumor surgery, your medical team will perform a series of tests to determine the best approach for your case. These tests may include:

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Imaging scans like CT scans and MRIs to get detailed pictures of the tumor's size, location, and surrounding tissue.

Blood tests to check your overall health and ensure you're ready for surgery.

Neurological exams to assess your brain’s function before surgery and help doctors monitor any changes after the procedure.

On the day of surgery, you’ll be given specific instructions, such as fasting for a certain period before the procedure. This is to ensure your safety during anesthesia.

The Surgical Process: What Happens During Brain Tumor Surgery?

Brain tumor surgery typically takes several hours, depending on the complexity of the tumor. Here's an overview of what happens during the procedure:

Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia to ensure you’re completely asleep and pain-free during the surgery.

Positioning: After anesthesia, you’ll be carefully positioned on the operating table. Your head will be secured to ensure that the neurosurgeon can work with precision.

Surgical Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in your scalp, typically in an area that will leave minimal scarring. In some cases, a small portion of your skull may need to be removed (this is called a craniotomy) to access the tumor.

Tumor Removal: The surgeon will then carefully remove as much of the tumor as possible, using advanced tools and techniques. In some cases, they may use a microscope to magnify the tumor for more precise removal.

Closing the Incision: Once the tumor is removed, the surgeon will close the incision in your scalp and, if necessary, replace the piece of skull that was removed.

Throughout the surgery, your vital signs will be closely monitored by a skilled anesthesiologist and surgical team to ensure your safety.

What Happens After Surgery? Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

After the surgery is complete, you’ll be taken to the recovery room, where the medical team will monitor you closely as you wake up from anesthesia. It’s normal to feel groggy, disoriented, or even nauseous, but these symptoms will gradually subside.

Common Post-Surgery Symptoms:

Headache: It’s common to experience some level of headache after brain tumor surgery. Pain relief medication will be provided to manage this discomfort.

Fatigue: Your body will need time to heal, and it’s normal to feel tired or fatigued in the days following surgery.

Swelling: Some swelling around the surgical site is expected, but it usually resolves on its own.

Cognitive or Sensory Changes: Depending on the tumor’s location, you may experience temporary changes in vision, speech, or movement. Your healthcare team will monitor these changes closely and provide rehabilitation as needed.

Rehabilitation and Support at Continental Hospitals

At Continental Hospitals, we offer comprehensive post-surgery rehabilitation services through our Vitanova Rehab Center. The rehab center specializes in helping patients recover from surgeries like brain tumor removal by providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy tailored to individual needs. These therapies help patients regain their strength, coordination, and cognitive function, ensuring a smoother recovery process.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Brain Tumor Surgery?

Recovery time varies from person to person, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the location of the tumor. In general, most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for several days after surgery. Some may return to normal activities within weeks, while others may require several months of rehabilitation.

Why Choose Continental Hospitals for Brain Tumor Surgery?

Choosing the right hospital for brain tumor surgery is crucial for your recovery. At Continental Hospitals, we pride ourselves on providing state-of-the-art care with a focus on patient comfort and well-being. Here’s why you should choose us:

Expert Neurosurgeons: Our neurosurgeons are highly trained and experienced in performing complex brain tumor surgeries. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Comprehensive Care: From pre-surgery diagnostics to post-surgery rehabilitation, our team provides complete, personalized care at every stage of your treatment.

Vitanova Rehab Center: Our dedicated rehabilitation center helps patients recover from surgery and regain their independence. The center offers physical therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive therapy in a supportive and caring environment.

Patient-Centred Approach: At Continental Hospitals, your comfort and recovery are our top priorities. We work closely with you and your family to ensure you receive the best care possible.

Conclusion

Brain tumor surgery can feel intimidating, but with the right team of experts by your side, you can navigate the process with confidence. At Continental Hospitals, we’re here to provide you with the best care before, during, and after your surgery. If you're dealing with a brain tumor diagnosis, don’t wait—schedule a consultation with one of our skilled neurosurgeons today and take the first step toward recovery.