Dr. Rahul Sharma, an accomplished Neurosurgeon and Associate Consultant at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, specializes in awake brain surgery, an innovative technique that allows patients to remain awake and alert during certain brain procedures.
What is Awake Brain Surgery?
Awake brain surgery, also known as awake craniotomy, is a surgical procedure performed while the patient is awake and able to communicate with the surgical team. This technique is commonly used for brain tumor removal or epilepsy surgery, allowing surgeons to map and preserve critical brain functions while removing abnormal tissue.
Why it's Done:
Awake brain surgery is performed for several reasons, including:
Brain Tumor Removal: Awake surgery allows surgeons to precisely identify and preserve critical brain functions, such as speech and movement while removing tumors located near these areas.
Epilepsy Surgery: In cases of drug-resistant epilepsy, awake surgery may be performed to identify and remove seizure-generating brain tissue while minimizing the risk of functional deficits.
Brain Mapping: Awake surgery enables neurosurgeons to map the brain's functional areas in real-time, helping to guide surgical decisions and optimize outcomes.
What You Can Expect:
Before Surgery:
Before awake brain surgery, you will undergo a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies and neurological assessments, to determine the location of critical brain functions. You may also meet with an anesthesiologist and neurosurgeon to discuss the procedure and address any concerns.
During Surgery:
During awake brain surgery, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the scalp and skull. Once the skull is opened, you will remain awake and responsive while the neurosurgeon stimulates various areas of the brain to map critical functions. You may be asked to perform tasks such as counting, speaking, or moving specific body parts to assess brain function and guide the surgical approach.
After Surgery:
After awake brain surgery, you will be closely monitored in the recovery area to ensure proper neurological function. You may experience mild discomfort or headache, which can be managed with medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be discharged home the same day or require a short hospital stay for observation.
Dr. Rahul Sharma ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs and condition. Read More :
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.