Brain tumours can occur to anyone, but there are certain factors that increase the risk of the same. The chances can be affected by age, gender and family history.
This risk can also be higher among those who are exposed to certain chemicals, radiation, electromagnetic fields and infections.
Certain ethnicities are also expected to be at a higher risk of getting a brain tumour as are those who have suffered head injuries in the past or have been treated by radiation for other problems related to the head.
Surgery to attempt removal of the brain tumour is generally the initial step in its treatment.
You do have the option of refusing the brain tumour surgery if you feel that the benefits of the surgery are outweighed by the risks.
To make the right choice, you should be well-informed of the benefits and the risks of the surgery.
Benefits of Brain Tumour Surgery
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Stop the Cancer from Spreading
Complete removal of the tumour can stem the spread of cancer. Patients of low-grade tumours may also need radiation therapy for complete cure.
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Reduction in the Number of Cancerous Cells
Sometimes, it may not be possible to remove the tumour completely.
This applies to those that spread quickly.
In this case, it helps in reducing the amount of tumour to be treated using chemotherapy or radiotherapy. This improves the effectiveness of further treatment.
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Extension of Life
It can add some months or years to the patient’s life depending on the spread of the tumour.
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Relief from Symptoms
A brain tumour surgery can help the patients live a somewhat better life by providing relief from symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, nausea and blurred vision.
These are caused by pressure build-up in the skull and can be effectively reduced through partial or complete removal of the tumour.
When to Avoid Brain Tumour Surgery?
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A Deeply Lodged Tumour
If the tumour is in a deeper part of the brain, it could be risky to try and remove it. Any attempt could result in damaging other parts of the brain that could leave a person disabled.
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Type of Tumour
Certain types of tumours cannot be treated by surgery, but it can be used to collect a sample for biopsy.
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The Age of the Patient
The immunity of a patient is low if he is either a child or a senior citizen. In such cases, the surgery should be avoided. It is safer to opt for surgery when the patient is young and otherwise healthy.
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The Overall Health of the Patient
If a patient has any health issues such as diabetes, a blood pressure condition or any other health condition that could cause complication during the surgery, it should be avoided.
Also, if any previously existing medical conditions are likely to become worse by going through the surgery, it is better not to take the risk.
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The Expertise of the Surgeon
If you feel that the surgeon handling your case does not have enough experience or does not have confidence in his capabilities, you can say ‘no’ to the surgery or ask for a more experienced surgeon to take over.
Risks of Brain Tumour Surgery
A brain tumour surgery, like any other surgery, can have many risks. Some of the risks of the surgery include possible swelling and bleeding in the brain.
There is a chance of an allergic reaction to anaesthesia, developing an infection or clotting of blood. The more severe side effects include damage to the other parts of the brain causing adverse effect on the memory or motor skills.
You must decide on accepting or rejecting the surgery with full knowledge of the possible results.
You should ask a lot of questions to satisfy your curiosity about all the risk factors and decide whether you are willing to take a chance.
You should go ahead with the surgery only if there is a chance that your life expectancy and quality of life will be better after the surgery.
The doctors will be able to weigh the factors and advise you from their point of view, but the final decision will always rest with you and your family.