Skull Base Surgery
Skull base surgery is performed to remove cancer and non-cancer growths or the abnormal development inside the brain, the skull base, or the vertebrae of the spinal column. This is because the area is hard to see and reach. The skull is made up of bones and cartilage that develop the face and cranium, which surrounds the brain. In fact, the bone of the skull can easily be felt by touch on the top of the skull. The 5 bones that form the bottom base of the cranium also form the eye socket, top of the nasal cavity, some of the sinuses, and the bones around the inner ear. Moreover, the skull base is a complex and sensitive area that has various openings. Through these openings, many blood vessels, spinal cord, and nerves pass.
Skull base surgery in India can be done through endoscopic procedure; therefore, it comes under a minimally invasive procedure. In this method, the surgeon inserts a special tool through the nose or through the mouth, or alternatively, the surgeon makes the hole above the eyebrow and inserts the tool from there. Importantly, this type of surgery is done under the supervision of skilled surgeons and a team of specialists.
Symptoms of skull base surgery
Here are possible symptoms of abnormality and growth in the skull. Symptoms depend upon the size and location of the growth. This may include:
- Facial pain
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Vision issue
- Numbness
- Weakness of the face
- Some different kind of sound in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Frequent sinus infection
- Stuffy nose
- Hormonal disorder
Types of skull base surgery
There are two main ways to perform skull base surgery. But the most acceptable method is endoscopic surgery. The type of surgery depends upon the type of growth that needs removal and the location of the growth.
- Minimally invasive skull base surgery or endoscopic: This is a surgery performed with minimal incision that does not require a large incision. A small opening is needed by the surgeon inside the nose. This opening is also known as a keyhole. The best neurosurgeon in India can remove the extra growth with a specialized tool, that is a thin lighted tube called an endoscope. An MRI is taken by the radiology specialist while the surgery is going on. This MRI helps to get the clear visuals and helps to ensure that all the growth is removed.
- Traditional or open skull base surgery: This type of surgery is performed with a large incision in the facial area and in the skull. Part of the bone needs to be removed to get the access and remove the growth. A microscope and operating room is needed to perform the traditional surgery.
Treatment for skull base surgery
These are the treatments that are required in open skull base surgery or in endoscopic treatment.
- Chemotherapy
- Gamma knife or radiosurgery
- Radiation therapy
- Proton beam therapy
- Particle therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Endocrine therapy
Cost of skull base surgery in India
The cost of skull base surgery in India is affordable and less as compared to other western nations. India is among the nations providing best care and medical services to the patients approaching from other nations. It not only saves the pocket but also does not compromise on the quality of the treatment.
However, the overall cost of the treatment may vary depending on several factors. These factors include the surgeon’s expertise, the type of implant, the location of the hospital, and more.
Summary
Skull base surgery is performed to remove cancer and non-cancer growths or the abnormal development inside the brain, the skull base, or the vertebrae of the spinal column.
Moreover, the skull base is a complex and sensitive area that has various openings. Through these openings, many blood vessels, spinal cord, and nerves pass.
