Brain tumour removal
PRIMARY OR SECONDARY TUMOURS
Surgery to remove a brain tumour
About removing a brain tumour
There are different types of brain tumours, which vary in degrees of complexity. If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumour, there are a number of options to reduce or remove the tumour.
Your consultant will discuss in detail what options are available with regard to your diagnosis. Here we give a general guide to the surgical removal of a brain tumour.
Need to know
Your surgeon will explain what you can expect in advance of your operation. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, and your consultant will make an incision in the scalp, before cutting a window in the skull to gain access to the tumour.
Generally these operations are performed using a microscope, sometimes using computer guidance and often specialist instruments to break up the tumour and remove it gradually, reducing damage to the surrounding brain.
In some situations the surgeon may perform keyhole surgery (neuroendoscopy) using a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and light on the end (an endoscope). The surgeon will use the endoscope to cut away and remove the tumour. Neuroendoscopy is done through a small opening rather than having to remove a larger piece of the skull. Your surgeon can discuss with you if this is suitable in your situation.
You may also be asked to attend a nurse-led pre-assessment clinic. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
If you have had surgery to the front or side of the head, your face and eyes may be swollen and bruised after the operation, but the swelling should start to go down within 72 hours.
Our Brain tumour removal locations
The Wellington Hospital
The Wilmslow Hospital
London Bridge Hospital
The Harley Street Clinic
The Princess Grace Hospital
The Shard Outpatients
Chiswick Outpatients
Chelsea Outpatients - 280 King's Road
Patient stories
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.