Neurosurgical assessment of tumours
Neuro-oncology concerns tumours of the nervous system. My practice includes assessment and surgical treatment of primary brain tumours and brain metastases. The first step is to understand the lesion and the person’s clinical circumstances.
Primary tumour or metastasis: why it matters
A primary tumour starts in the nervous system; a metastasis comes from cancer originating elsewhere in the body. This distinction, together with location and general health, shapes assessment and treatment. Imaging may guide us, but tissue analysis is often needed to establish a precise diagnosis.
What I review during the consultation
I review full imaging and reports, symptoms and their course, cancer history and previous treatments. We also consider how the lesion affects independence and neurological function. Earlier scans are useful for comparison when available.
Defining the aim of surgery
We review imaging, the location of the lesion, symptoms and medical history. Depending on the case, surgery may be considered to obtain a diagnosis or remove tumour tissue, weighing the expected benefit against the need to preserve neurological function.
Biopsy and resection have different aims
A biopsy aims to obtain a sample for analysis. Resection aims to remove tumour tissue to an extent appropriate for the case. Whether surgery is possible and how extensive it should be depend on the relationship to brain structures, clinical circumstances and the balance of benefit and risk.
A decision within a treatment plan
The proposal is considered alongside the assessment of the professionals involved in oncological care. I explain the role of neurosurgery, its risks and possible limitations. Tissue analysis, when tissue is obtained, helps guide subsequent steps.
After surgery: results and continuing care
When tissue has been obtained, pathological and, where appropriate, molecular analysis helps define the diagnosis. Subsequent steps may include monitoring, oncological treatments or rehabilitation according to individual needs. I explain the role of surgery and how it fits into ongoing care.
