What does brain tumour surgery treat?

Surgery may be considered for gliomas, glioblastoma, meningioma, pituitary tumours and acoustic neuromas. It can also remove or reduce selected brain metastases that have spread from cancer elsewhere. The operation may aim to remove as much tumour as can be reached safely, reduce pressure on the brain, improve symptoms or establish the tumour type through a biopsy. A complete removal is not always possible when tumour tissue lies close to areas controlling speech, movement, vision or other functions.

The neurosurgical team uses scans and neurological assessment to plan the route. Surgery may be followed by radiotherapy, medicines or monitoring. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a different focused treatment and may be considered for some small or difficult-to-reach lesions.

Bring a complete medicine list, including blood thinners and supplements, and report seizures, headaches, weakness, speech changes or vision problems. Ask how the tumour’s location affects the operation, whether tissue will be sent for analysis, and what recovery support may be needed. Follow instructions about fasting, medicines, wound care and activity after discharge. Do not drive until the surgical team says it is safe.

After brain surgery, seek urgent help for a seizure lasting longer than usual, new weakness, difficulty speaking, worsening confusion, a severe or rapidly increasing headache, repeated vomiting, fever with wound redness, or clear fluid leaking from the wound or nose. Sudden drowsiness or loss of consciousness requires emergency assessment.

Is the aim diagnosis, pressure relief, tumour reduction or removal? Which brain functions are near the tumour? What changes might be temporary or lasting? Could radiotherapy or another approach be suitable? What symptoms after discharge should trigger urgent help?