Brain metastases treatment with craniotomy surgery

In some cases, single and small brain metastases can be surgically removed. Therefore, operations are typically performed in cerebellar, temporal, and frontal lobes in relatively low operational risk areas. A surgical approach to brain metastases eliminates brain lesions, preventing further growth and complications related to brain formation. However, at the same time, the treatment can't be considered curative until the primary cancer source is removed. The surgical process consists of the following steps. First, general anesthesia completely turns off consciousness. The head is fixed in the necessary position with the help of a particular device. It is required to avoid involuntary movements and ensure maximum surgery accuracy. The neurosurgeon incurs the scalp, exposing the skull bone. Then the bone fragment is cut out using a special high-speed drill. Nest, metastases are removed using electric tweezers or an aspirator. Finally, the neurosurgeon sews up the brain coverage and returns the skull fragment to its place. The bone itself is fixed with special brackets. If the final step, the doctor sews up the incision, applies a bandage, and, if necessary, installs drainage for fluid outflow. The operation is carried out under the constant supervision of MRI to increase control. The duration of the surgery depends on the complexity and usually lasts about 2-4 hours. Hospitalization usually is a week at maximum.