Meningioma Surgery

What is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that grows from the meninges — the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign (not cancerous), but they can still cause serious problems by pressing on the brain, spinal cord, or surrounding nerves.

Types of Meningiomas:

Benign Meningioma – Most common type, slow growing
Atypical Meningioma – More likely to recur and grow faster
Malignant Meningioma – Cancerous and aggressive

Meningiomas occur more frequently in women and are often found in older adults. They may not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated reasons.

Causes of Meningioma

The exact cause of meningioma is not clear, but factors may include:

Genetic mutations
Radiation exposure
Hormonal influence (especially in women)
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (a genetic disorder)

Symptoms of Meningioma

Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

Headaches
Seizures
Vision problems
Weakness in limbs
Personality changes
Memory loss
Hearing loss
Nausea or vomiting

Diagnosis

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – Preferred method to view tumors
CT (Computed Tomography) scan – Helps in identifying calcification
Biopsy – To confirm the diagnosis if necessary

Procedure

Meningioma Surgery

Surgical removal is often the first line of treatment, especially if the tumor is causing symptoms. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible.

Types of Surgery:

Craniotomy – A section of the skull is removed to access and remove the tumor
Endoscopic surgery – For tumors near the base of the skull; less invasive
Spinal surgery – If the tumor is located along the spinal meninges

If the entire tumor cannot be removed, partial resection followed by radiation therapy may be recommended.

Post-surgery Care

Monitoring in ICU
Neurological evaluations
Pain management
Physiotherapy for rehabilitation
Follow-up MRIs

Factors Affecting Meningioma Surgery Cost in India

Type and location of the tumor
Type of surgery performed
Hospital and facilities
Experience of the neurosurgeon
Duration of hospital stay
Post-surgical care and medications

Suggestions

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a favorable outcome
Regular follow-ups with MRI are essential to monitor for recurrence
Discuss risks and benefits thoroughly with your neurosurgeon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Meningiomas be Cured?
A: Many meningiomas can be completely removed surgically, offering a cure. However, some may recur and require further treatment.

Q: Is Surgery Always Necessary?
A: Not always. Small, asymptomatic meningiomas may be monitored with regular imaging.

Q: How Long is Recovery After Meningioma Surgery?
A: Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days and require several weeks for full recovery. Physical therapy may help in regaining strength.

Q: What are the Risks of Meningioma Surgery?
A: Risks include infection, bleeding, neurological deficits, and recurrence of the tumor.

Q: Can Meningiomas Turn Cancerous?
A: Most are benign, but a small percentage can become malignant or atypical.