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Treatment
is based on information from various neurological testing and diagnostic scans. Experienced
neurosurgeons
along with other specialists usually make up a multi-disciplinary
medical team that provide the patient with information on one or several
methods of up-to-date treatment opportunities. The patient's
health status, goals for treatment, and quality of life issues
should
all be considered when surgery plans are discussed.
Surgery is the treatment of choice for accessible brain tumors.
Tumors located deep within the brain such as the brainstem may be
inaccessible. The goal of the neurosurgeon is to remove all
visible tumor, but even partial tumor removal is beneficial.
Aggressive surgical removal may result in transient but significant
cranial nerve dysfunction in the postoperative period. A
conservative approach is indicated for patients in whom the
capsule is adherent to the brain stem and the cranial nerves
(Neurosurgery, 1997 Jan, 40:1, 24-9).
There is also the option of wait and watch (W&W) for patients
who are diagnosed with this type tumor but who remain stable or
who are only slightly symptomatic. In most cases these tumors are very
slow growing and can be followed by periodic M.R.I.'s and
neurological exams giving the patient and neurosurgeon time to
develop a course of action. A second or even third opinion is
a wise choice rather than rushing into surgery. When choosing a
neurosurgeon, find one who has had broad experience with this
tumor an its location.
New and exciting procedures are being developed. Minimally invasive
microsurgical techniques being used are lessening cranial nerve
deficits. The development of nerve transplant therapy to restore
damaged nerves is just being brought to reality and there may be
evidence of gene therapy to prevent recurrence.
Disclaimer
The Epidermoid Brain Tumor
Community pages are intended to provide information - not to
advocate particular treatment options. Thus, patients should not
alter treatment without first consulting their physician.
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