Understanding Brain Surgery: Purpose, Procedures & Recovery
The human brain is the central command centre for the nervous system, breaking down the barrier between rest and activity, between feelings and memory, and between movement and speech. If something in the brain goes wrong — whether due to injury, disease, or structural defect — brain surgery can be used to try and resolve the problem. Medical technology has advanced so far that neurosurgery is now safer and more successful than ever, providing hope to patients with conditions ranging from tumours to epilepsy.
Our renowned neurosurgeons at Chase Lodge Hospital have in-depth experience and bring advanced technology to these life-saving procedures. Whether you are personally preparing for brain surgery or someone you care for is undergoing the procedure, knowing what to expect can alleviate fears and set expectations before entering the operating room.
What is Brain Surgery?
Brain surgery, the more general term (also known as neurosurgery), is a type of surgery commonly performed by specialised medical practitioners who diagnose and treat conditions or injuries of the brain, spine, and nervous system. It is carried out by specially trained neurosurgeons who practise the diagnosis and treatment of complex neurological disorders.
Brain surgery may be required to:
- Remove tumours (cancerous or benign).
- Treat aneurysms (ballooning of blood vessels that may rupture).
- Decompress haemorrhages (lesions containing blood within the brain).
- Treat epilepsy or Parkinson’s disease.
- Correct damage caused by traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or skull fractures.
Every case is different, and surgeons adjust their approach based on the patient’s situation.
Common Types of Brain Surgery
Craniotomy
- A craniotomy, in which a small piece of skull is temporarily removed to allow access to the brain, is one of the most frequently performed procedures. This enables surgeons to excise tumours, clip aneurysms, or repair faulty tissue. The bone is typically restored following surgery.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Small incisions and special tools – such as those used in endoscopic surgery – not only reduce costs but also mean shorter recovery times and a lower risk of infection. This method is frequently used for fluid drainage or pituitary tumours.
Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT)
- SRS (like Gamma Knife) is not a cutting tool, despite its name. Instead, it uses tightly focused radiation to destroy tumours or other abnormal tissue while carefully avoiding damage to surrounding areas.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
- A treatment for Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, DBS involves implanting electrodes in specific regions of the brain to regulate faulty nerve signals.
Ventriculostomy
- This procedure removes excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to relieve pressure caused by conditions such as hydrocephalus.
Reasons for Brain Surgery
Brain surgery may be advised for a number of medical conditions:
- Tumours – Removing growths before they can harm healthy tissue.
- Blood clots or haemorrhages – Reducing the risk of strokes caused by bleeding or blockages.
- Trauma – Repairing skull fractures or reducing brain swelling after an accident.
- Neurological disorders – Managing seizures in epilepsy or movement issues in Parkinson’s.
A condition’s prognosis improves with early diagnosis and treatment.
Preparing for Brain Surgery
Proper preparation can help make the procedure and recovery easier:
- Tests and Consultation: CT and MRI scans offer fine-grained pictures of the brain.
- Medication adjustments – Blood-thinning medications, for example, may need to be stopped.
- Fasting – Patients usually avoid eating for several hours before surgery.
- Discussion with the surgeon – Understanding the risks, benefits, and expected results.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but general steps include:
- Hospital monitoring – Patients are observed for complications such as swelling or infection.
- Rehabilitation – Physical or occupational therapy can help regain strength and coordination.
- Follow-up visits – Monitoring healing and detecting any issues early.
- Managing side effects – Fatigue, headaches, or memory difficulties are common but usually temporary.
The support of family and medical staff is crucial during the rehabilitation process.
Risks and Complications
Though modern procedures carry fewer risks, potential complications include:
- Infection or haemorrhage – The risk can be minimised with sterile techniques.
- Neurological symptoms – Temporary issues with speech, vision, or movement may occur.
- Reactions to anaesthesia – Rare but possible.
Conclusion
For many neurological conditions, brain surgery is a difficult but life-saving procedure. Thanks to minimally invasive techniques, targeted radiation, and skilled care, outcomes continue to improve. If you are considering brain surgery, consulting a skilled neurosurgeon is the first step in exploring your options.
At Chase Lodge Hospital, we prioritise excellence in patient care, focusing on holistic healing. Get in touch with our committed staff right now to set up a consultation or to find out more.
