Endoscopic Resection of Brain Tumor
- Neurosurgeons at Emory are now removing benign cystic tumors from deep within the brain through small incisions and openings in the skull no larger than the size of a pea with the use of a 6-millimeter endoscope (fiberoptic camera).
Visualization by the endoscope allows for identification of cysts in the third ventricle, thus allowing small instruments (2-millimeters) to pass through openings at the end of the endoscope to remove these tumors. Deep seated cystic tumors can cause obstructive hydrocephalus, an increased build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. Blockage of the normal flow of CSF can lead to increased intracranial pressure, resulting in headache, vertigo, memory impairment, weakness of limbs, behavioral changes and even sudden death.
Patient Advantages:
- This novel treatment alleviates the need to fully open the skull to remove brain tumors, meaning fewer risks for neurologic injury because of less exposure of the brain, less operating time and shorter hospital stays for the patient.
- Much shorter recovery times mean patients can return to normal activities several days after surgery.
- Patients who have these tumors removed using this minimally invasive technique have excellent outcomes.
- Endoscopy has revolutionized the ability to treat patients with deep seated cystic tumors in the brain.
