CANCER - The Brain - Surgery |
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| Once the type of brain tumour is
known, more extensive operations can be done to remove all or part of the brain tumour.
One of these is called a craniotomy. You will be given a general anaesthetic and
some of your hair may need to be shaved off in the anaesthetic room before the operation.
Some patients are either advised or prefer to have all their hair shaved off, as this
makes it easier to wear a wig while waiting for their hair to grow back. The surgeon will
cut the piece of skull above the tumour to remove the tumour itself, then replace the
piece of skull and the flap of scalp is stitched back in place. Often it is not possible or advisable to remove all of the tumour. When only part is removed, this is called partial resection or debulking. Sometimes the only way for the surgeon to remove the tumour is to go through some part of the brain, which will leave some permanent neurological damage. If there is a risk of this, the surgeon will discuss it with you before the operation. In some situations it is too difficult or dangerous to remove even a small part of the tumour, or the doctors think that other treatments are more suitable. Your surgeon or doctor will discuss the most appropriate type of operation with you and, if you like, with a close relative or friend. Before any operation, do ask questions so that you know exactly what is involved. Remember, no operation or procedure will be done without your consent. After your operation |