Welcome to the Brain Cancer Surgery Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group, where we provide comprehensive and specialized care for individuals diagnosed with malignant brain tumors. Brain cancer, often referred to as malignant brain tumors, is a serious condition that requires prompt, precise treatment. Our team of experienced neurosurgeons, oncologists, and healthcare professionals are committed to delivering the most advanced care using state-of-the-art technology and innovative treatment options.
We understand that a diagnosis of brain cancer can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment plan and expert care, there is hope for better outcomes. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer personalized care for patients with malignant brain tumors, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of treatment, tailored to your specific needs.
What is Brain Cancer?
Brain cancer refers to malignant (cancerous) tumors that develop in the brain or spread to the brain from other parts of the body. These tumors can vary in size and location and can impact critical brain functions. Some common types of malignant brain cancer include:
- Glioblastoma (GBM): One of the most aggressive and common types of brain cancer, often requiring a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
- Astrocytoma: A type of glioma that originates in astrocytes, a type of brain cell.
- Oligodendroglioma: Tumors that develop from oligodendrocytes, a type of cell that supports nerve fibers in the brain.
- Medulloblastoma: A type of cancer that typically affects children, often requiring surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
- Meningioma: While many are benign, some meningiomas are malignant and require aggressive treatment.
Malignant brain tumors are classified into various grades, with higher-grade tumors (such as glioblastomas) being more aggressive and more difficult to treat.
Brain Cancer Surgery in Dubai
At Emirates Hospitals Group, our expert neurosurgeons use the latest surgical techniques to remove malignant brain tumors while preserving healthy brain tissue. Our approach to brain cancer treatment involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists who work together to determine the best course of action, considering the tumor’s size, location, and grade.
Surgical Treatment for Brain Cancer
Brain cancer surgery is often the first step in treating malignant brain tumors. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible, while minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Our neurosurgeons use advanced imaging technology such as intraoperative MRI, neuronavigation, and stereotactic surgery to guide the surgical process with precision.
- Craniotomy: In this procedure, a portion of the skull is removed to access the tumor, and the tumor is then surgically excised. After tumor removal, the skull is typically reattached.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: For certain tumors, we may use minimally invasive techniques, including endoscopic surgery, which requires smaller incisions and promotes faster recovery.
Combination of Surgery with Other Treatments
Depending on the type and location of the malignant brain tumor, surgery may be followed by additional treatments such as:
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining tumor cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Techniques like stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife, CyberKnife) allow precise targeting of tumors with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with surgery and radiation, especially for aggressive tumors like glioblastoma. Chemotherapy drugs are used to destroy cancer cells and prevent the tumor from growing back.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy may be recommended for certain types of brain cancer. These treatments are designed to specifically target cancer cells based on genetic mutations or other biomarkers.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer treatment approach that boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It may be used for specific types of brain cancer that are difficult to treat.
Symptoms of Brain Cancer
The symptoms of brain cancer can vary depending on the tumor’s size, location, and rate of growth. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches: Persistent or worsening headaches, often worse in the morning.
- Seizures: Unexplained seizures can be a sign of brain cancer.
- Vision or Speech Problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty speaking may occur if the tumor affects areas responsible for vision and speech.
- Cognitive Changes: Difficulty with memory, concentration, or other cognitive functions.
- Motor Weakness: Weakness or paralysis in a specific part of the body, depending on the tumor’s location.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Caused by increased pressure in the brain or hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain).
- Personality Changes: Behavioral changes, confusion, or mood swings can occur if the tumor impacts areas of the brain responsible for emotions and personality.
Diagnostic Approaches for Brain Cancer
Accurate diagnosis is essential to develop the most effective treatment plan. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess the tumor and its effects on the brain:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is the gold standard for visualizing brain tumors, providing detailed images that help determine the size, location, and nature of the tumor.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan may be used in emergency situations to assess brain swelling or bleeding.
- Biopsy: If necessary, a biopsy is performed to confirm the type of tumor. This may be done through surgery or using a needle to obtain a tissue sample.
- Genetic Testing: Genetic and molecular testing of the tumor can help guide treatment decisions, especially for tumors with specific mutations that may respond to targeted therapies.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care for Brain Cancer Surgery in Dubai
Recovery from brain cancer surgery depends on various factors, including the tumor’s location and size, the complexity of the surgery, and the patient’s overall health. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we provide comprehensive post-surgery care to help patients recover as smoothly as possible:
- Hospital Stay: After brain cancer surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days for monitoring and pain management.
- Pain Management: Pain relief is provided to ensure comfort during recovery, and medications may be prescribed to control swelling or prevent seizures.
- Post-Surgery Monitoring: Close monitoring will take place to check for any complications, such as infection, neurological changes, or swelling.
- Rehabilitation: Some patients may require physical therapy, speech therapy, or cognitive rehabilitation to recover from the effects of the tumor or surgery.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits and imaging tests will be scheduled to track recovery and monitor for any recurrence of the tumor.
- Supportive Care: Psychological support, nutritional counseling, and assistance with daily activities may also be provided as part of comprehensive care during recovery.