Use of GPS in the brain to treat tumor

This technology is similar to GPS and tracks and shows the exact area of tumor that helps the surgeons to make the exact cut, and eliminating the need to completely shave the head

A 35 year old with a brain tumour was successfully operated upon at Artemis hospital here using the neuronavigation technique. Rahul (name changed) from Pilani was regularly having complaints of severe headaches each morning. Headaches were accompanied by vomiting which gave him some relief. Soon he reported hampered speech, Changes in hearing, deviation in tongue and weakening of limbs. Realising something was wrong, they consulted a doctor, who recommended an MRI scan. The test found the presence of some thickening, suggesting a brain tumour, in the ventricles.

“I had been visiting many doctors but the response was same. They said that surgery can be performed but the skull would be disfigured and the incision mark would remain on his skull till lifetime. I was then referred to Artemis hospital” says Rahul.

A special MRI was done known as the Intra-operative magnetic resonance imaging which is used to create images of the brain during cranial surgeries. It helps create an accurate image of the brain, in order to remove brain tumor and other abnormalities directly, safely, and effectively during the surgery. It reduces the need for the patient to undergo a second surgery and also reduces the risk of surgical complication. When this technology is used in combination with neuro-navigation system, that navigate the brain during the surgery, without damaging the vital areas of the brain.

“The patient was having a 6 to 7 cm of tumor on the left side of the skull that interrupted his speech. We decided to make use of the ‘Neuronavigation technology’ that acts like a GPS inside the brain to locate tumor accurately. There is no need to shave the head bald and only a small incision need to be made to remove the tumor. Post surgical disfigurement is also avoided.” Says Dr Aditya Gupta, NeoroSurgeon, Artemis Hospital.

After the tumor was removed the patient recovered quickly and leading a normal lifestyle. Rahul was happy with the surgery as he had the same hairstyle, without any noticeable incision mark and moreover with the same shaped skull. After the surgery Rahul says, “My headache vanished, though I give regular visit to the doctor, I feel more confident mainly because my speech receptors are working properly.”