Brain tumour surgery may be considered to remove or obtain tissue from an abnormal growth in the brain. The approach depends on the tumour's location, size, type and relationship to important neurological structures. Assessment may involve imaging, neurological examination and discussion of the potential benefits and risks.
Neuro-oncology focuses on tumours affecting the brain, spinal cord and related nervous system structures. Management may involve surgical assessment, imaging, tissue diagnosis and coordination with oncology teams. The appropriate care plan depends on the tumour type, location, symptoms and the patient's overall clinical condition.
Skull base surgery addresses selected tumours and other conditions involving the complex area where the brain meets the base of the skull. Procedures require careful planning because important nerves and blood vessels are located nearby. The choice of approach depends on the location and nature of the condition.
Endoscopic neurosurgery uses a small camera and specialised instruments to access selected areas of the brain or skull base. In suitable cases, it can provide an alternative route to a target area. Whether an endoscopic approach is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, anatomy and surgical objectives.
A brain aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel wall that may enlarge and, in some cases, rupture. Assessment considers the aneurysm's size, shape, location and other risk factors. Depending on the findings, management may involve monitoring, further investigation or a specialist procedure.
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins. Brain AVMs may require specialist evaluation to understand their location, symptoms and bleeding risk. Management options vary and can include observation or selected interventions based on detailed imaging and multidisciplinary assessment.
Spinal tumour surgery may be considered when a tumour affects the spinal cord, nerve roots or supporting spinal structures. Treatment planning takes into account the tumour's type and location, neurological symptoms and spinal stability. The aim and extent of surgery depend on the individual diagnosis and clinical assessment.
Degenerative spine conditions can involve disc changes, narrowing around nerves or spinal instability. Surgery may be considered when symptoms and examination findings support an operation, particularly when appropriate non-surgical measures have not provided sufficient benefit. The specific procedure depends on the affected spinal level and diagnosis.
Minimally invasive neurosurgery uses specialised instruments and approaches intended to reduce disruption to surrounding tissues in selected procedures. It may be an option for certain brain or spinal conditions, but it is not suitable for every case. Procedure selection depends on anatomy, disease characteristics and surgical safety.
An awake craniotomy is a specialised operation in which a patient is awake for selected stages so neurological functions such as speech or movement can be assessed. Brain mapping helps identify important functional areas. These techniques may be considered for selected brain tumours or lesions near critical brain regions.
Deep brain stimulation uses implanted electrodes to deliver electrical stimulation to specific brain regions. It is used for selected neurological conditions, including certain movement disorders, after careful assessment. Suitability depends on the diagnosis, symptom pattern, previous treatment and a specialist team's evaluation.
Paediatric neurosurgery addresses conditions affecting the developing brain, spine and nervous system in children. Depending on the diagnosis, evaluation may involve congenital abnormalities, tumours, hydrocephalus or other structural conditions. Decisions about treatment require age-appropriate assessment and careful discussion with the child's family.
Spinal deformity correction may be considered for selected conditions involving abnormal spinal curvature or alignment. Assessment typically considers the type and severity of the deformity, pain, neurological function and spinal stability. Treatment may range from monitoring and supportive care to surgery in appropriately selected cases.
Burr hole surgery involves creating a small opening in the skull to access the space beneath it. It may be used in selected conditions, such as draining certain collections of blood or fluid. The decision depends on the cause, imaging findings, urgency and the patient's neurological condition.
Emergency neurosurgery may be required for serious conditions such as selected head injuries, bleeding inside the skull, pressure on the brain or acute spinal compression. Urgent assessment and imaging help guide treatment decisions. Suspected neurological emergencies require immediate medical attention rather than a routine appointment.