A tumour in the brain or spinal cord can affect movement, speech, vision, memory, balance, sensation or bladder and bowel function. Some tumours are non-cancerous but still require treatment because of their size or location; others are malignant and need coordinated surgery, pathology, oncology and rehabilitation.

At Apollo Adlux Hospital, Angamaly, neurosurgical evaluation focuses on obtaining an accurate diagnosis and choosing the safest effective route to biopsy, remove or control the tumour. The recommended approach may be conventional, microsurgical, endoscopic, keyhole or awake, depending on the tumour and the functions located nearby. Care may include primary brain tumours, metastatic tumours, meningiomas, pituitary-region and skull-base lesions, selected paediatric tumours, spinal cord tumours, nerve sheath tumours and tumours affecting the spinal canal. A precise diagnosis depends on imaging and, when needed, tissue examination by pathology.

Symptoms can include a new or worsening headache, seizures, persistent vomiting, personality or memory change, weakness on one side, speech or vision difficulty, imbalance, persistent neck or back pain, radiating limb pain, numbness, weakness, or changes in bladder and bowel control. Sudden neurological deterioration needs emergency care.

Advanced surgical approaches:  Microneurosurgery uses an operating microscope and fine instruments to separate tumour from delicate nerves, blood vessels, the brain or spinal cord. The goal is maximal safe removal rather than removal at the cost of avoidable neurological injury. Minimally invasive and keyhole approaches use a smaller working corridor when the tumour's location and anatomy permit. Endoscopic surgery may be considered for selected intraventricular, pituitary, skull-base or spinal lesions. These terms describe the access route; they do not mean every tumour can be treated through a small incision.

Awake craniotomy may be recommended when a tumour lies near areas controlling speech, language or movement. During part of the operation, the patient performs simple tasks while the team maps essential brain function. This helps the surgeon plan tumour removal while protecting critical areas. Suitability is assessed carefully with the patient, anaesthesia team and neuropsychology or language specialists.

Patients receive coordinated evaluation for complex brain, spine and nerve conditions with access to emergency care, diagnostic imaging, critical care and rehabilitation support as clinically required. Treatment is planned around the diagnosis, neurological function and individual goals.  To discuss symptoms or a neurosurgical diagnosis, book an appointment with the Neurosurgery team at Apollo Adlux Hospital Kochi. For sudden severe neurological symptoms, seek emergency care immediately.