What is minimally invasive brain surgery?
Minimally invasive brain surgery uses small keyhole incisions in the skull, eyelid, or nose. It can also use an endovascular approach in which a catheter is inserted into the bloodstream at the groin and guided to the brain.
Minimally invasive brain surgery is an alternative to craniotomy, during which the neurosurgeon opens the skull.
Not all patients are eligible for these minimally invasive techniques. It depends on the nature of your condition, your age, and your general health.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive brain surgery?
Minimally invasive brain surgery offers several advantages over a traditional craniotomy, including:
- Smaller incisions with less scarring
- Less exposure of the brain
- Less reliance on narcotics for pain
- Rapid recovery
- Shorter hospital stays
- Less handling of the brain itself
Dr. Glickman has the skill, training, and technology to do these demanding procedures.
What conditions can be treated using minimally invasive brain surgery?
Minimally invasive brain surgery is a near miracle for several serious conditions, including:
Cerebrovascular disease
These diseases include brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and blocked arteries. Endovascular procedures treat these disorders in a minimally invasive way with great success. Technological advances and state-of-the-art imaging means that repair using minimally invasive methods is accurate without large surgical incisions.
Skull-base tumors
Pituitary and meningioma tumors at the base of the skull are now accessible through the nose or roof of the mouth.
Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy
Deep brain stimulation benefits patients with Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy. Modern minimally invasive methods can do this with the smallest of incisions — about the size of a quarter.
Tumors and other lesions
Radiosurgery and radiotherapy are the least invasive ways to treat tumors because no incision is required. These methods work by damaging the DNA inside the tumor cells, making them unable to multiply. The patient feels like they’re getting an X-ray There’s no bleeding and no pain.
To learn about the minimally invasive brain surgery procedures possible, call the Center for Neurosurgery Las Vegas today or use the online tool to book an appointment.
