Brain Tumors

What are brain tumors?

Brain tumors are masses of abnormal cells that grow out of control. Over time, the mass of cells turns into a tumor. 

Brain tumors may be primary or secondary.

Primary brain tumors 

Primary brain tumors are masses of abnormal brain cells that originate in the brain. A primary brain tumor may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). 

Secondary brain tumors

Secondary brain tumors are tumors that form in the brain from cancer that starts in other parts of the body, such as breast or lung cancer. Secondary brain tumors are always malignant. 

What are the symptoms of brain tumors?

Symptoms of a brain tumor may depend on the location, size, and rate of growth of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Seizures
• Changes in speech or hearing
• Changes in personality
  
  

The experts at Inland Neurosurgery Institute diagnose brain tumors after performing a neurological exam and running diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or MRI. 

The skilled neurosurgeons also perform a stereotactic needle biopsy of selected tumors to diagnose tumor type (malignant or benign, type of abnormal cells). During the biopsy, the neurosurgeons drill through your skull and use a needle to extract a small sample of the abnormal growth for evaluation.  

Who needs surgery for brain tumors?

The skilled neurosurgeons at INI determine who needs surgery for their brain tumor following a comprehensive evaluation. They base their decision on the location, size, and type of brain tumor. 

The neurosurgeons perform a craniotomy to access the portion of the brain where your tumor is located. They use advanced surgical techniques to remove as much, if not all, of the tumor as possible.

For brain tumors located at the base of the skull or near the spine, the neurosurgeons perform endoscopic brain tumor surgery, a minimally invasive approach where they go through your nose to remove the tumor. 

The experts perform surgery for benign and malignant brain tumors. 

Removing even a small portion of your brain tumor may ease your symptoms. 

What happens after surgery for brain tumors?

Treatment after surgery for your brain tumor may depend on brain tumor type. For malignant brain tumors, you may need additional treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted drug therapy.

For benign brain tumors, the neurosurgeons may have you repeat brain scans to monitor for a recurrence. 

Schedule a consultation at Inland Neurosurgery Institute to discuss surgical options for your brain tumor by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.