Successful endoscopic brain tumor surgery performed through nose at CMC

Ludhiana, August 25, 2013: Brain tumors are one of the most difficult challenges faced by a neurosurgeon in their clinical practice. Brain tumors can be of many types ranging from small benign tumors, which can be left alone to highly aggressive malignant tumors. Till recent time brain tumor surgery was associated with very high morbidity and sometimes mortality. Large opening in skull with skin incisions were used to remove brain tumors. But with latest technological advances in medical science it is now possible to remove some of the brain tumors through the nose without any external incision. Recent advances in skull base neurosurgery with combination of endoscopic techniques it is now possible to reach difficult areas of brain and skull with minimal risk to the patient.

In a significant development a similar case of brain tumor was operated successfully via nose with endoscopic technique at Christian Medical College & Hospital (CMCH) by a team of neurosurgeons and ENT surgeons. This 50 year old gentleman consulted his ophthalmologist for deteriorating vision and was investigated. To his disbelief he was told to be having a brain tumor behind his eyed at base of brain. He went to many places and finally decided to get operated at CMCH. A team of neurosurgeons and ENT surgeon headed by Dr Sarvpreet Singh Grewal successfully operated this patient.

Dr Sukhdeep Singh Jhawar Associate professor neurosurgery and Dr Navneet Associate professor ENT were also part of this team. Patient improved in his vision after surgery and was discharged on fifth postoperative day. Dr Jhawar told our reporter that these kind of advanced and complex brain tumor cases can only be done through coordinated team work and modern technology, which till recently was available in large cities. He also emphasized the need to educate patients and general physicians about latest developments in field of neurosurgery and skull base surgery.