What is Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Neurosurgery?
Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery is a surgical procedure for the treatment of brain tumors and certain spine disorders such as herniated discs and compression fractures. It is performed through tiny incisions with the help of an endoscope, a flexible tube that contains a light source and tiny camera to capture detailed images of the internal tissues and blood vessels. This helps your neurosurgeon perform the surgery with accuracy.
Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery allows your neurosurgeon to view deep within your brain through alternate pathways such as the nose and sinuses, apart from the skull. This approach may be more effective in the removal of certain tumors when compared to traditional open brain surgery when the surgeon cannot remove the tumor in inaccessible regions of the brain.
What are the Indications for Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Neurosurgery?
Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery is recommended when your neurosurgeon has to:
- Access areas of your brain that cannot be reached with a traditional open surgery
- Remove a tumor without cutting or damaging other parts of your brain
What are the Benefits of a Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Neurosurgery?
Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery offers the following benefits:
- Small incisions
- Less blood loss
- Less pain
- Minimal scarring
- Faster recovery
- Quicker discharge
- More accurate and precise
- Reduced time in surgery
What are the Risks Associated with Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Neurosurgery?
Some of the risks involved with minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery may include:
- Formation of a blood clot(s) in your brain
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the surrounding tissues or blood vessels
- Stroke
- Seizure
- Temporary or permanent changes in functions such as vision, speech, memory, coordination, and balance.
Summary
Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery may be an option for your condition. Consult your neurosurgeon to learn more about minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery for the treatment of brain and spine disorders.
