Brainstem Glioma Treatment in India
About Brainstem Glioma
Key Highlights
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Directly addresses the tumor mass to relieve pressure on critical brainstem structures.Provides a definitive tissue sample (biopsy) for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.Can potentially improve or stabilize neurological symptoms like difficulty swallowing, walking, or facial weakness.Utilizes advanced technology like neuronavigation and intraoperative monitoring for enhanced precision and safety.Often a crucial first step in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary treatment plan.
Who is this surgery for?
- Presence of a focal, well-defined brainstem tumor that is causing significant mass effect or neurological deficits.
- Need for a tissue biopsy to confirm the glioma type (e.g., diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma vs. focal glioma) when imaging is inconclusive.
- Progressive neurological symptoms unresponsive to non-surgical treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.
- Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain) caused by the tumor obstructing cerebrospinal fluid pathways.
- Suspicion of a low-grade or exophytic tumor that may be more amenable to surgical resection.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive neurological examination and advanced imaging (MRI, often with spectroscopy or perfusion).
- Pre-operative counseling with the neurosurgical team to discuss goals, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Medication review; some blood thinners may need to be stopped days before surgery.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure as per anesthesia guidelines.
- Possible placement of special monitoring devices (e.g., for intraoperative neurophysiology).
- Arranging for post-operative support and care during the recovery period.
Risks & possible complications
- Damage to critical brainstem nuclei, potentially leading to worsened swallowing (dysphagia), speech difficulty, or facial weakness.
- Injury to motor or sensory pathways, causing weakness, numbness, or paralysis.
- Bleeding (hemorrhage) or infection within the surgical site.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak or development of hydrocephalus.
- Stroke, respiratory complications, or cardiovascular instability due to brainstem manipulation.
- Incomplete tumor resection or recurrence of the glioma.
- General risks of anesthesia.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring of vital functions and neurological status.
- Management of pain, swelling, and potential nausea with medications.
- Gradual mobilization with assistance from physical and occupational therapists.
- Possible need for a temporary feeding tube if swallowing is impaired.
- Speech and swallowing therapy may be initiated as needed.
- Follow-up imaging (MRI) to assess the extent of tumor resection and monitor for recurrence.
- Coordination with oncology for adjuvant therapies like radiation or chemotherapy.
- Ongoing outpatient rehabilitation to maximize functional recovery.
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Typical hospital stay:
7-14 days
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Expected recovery time:
Several weeks to months for initial functional recovery; long-term rehabilitation may be ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering brainstem glioma in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for brainstem glioma in India include Medanta The Medicity, Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Cytecare Hospital, Miot Hospital Chennai, Nanavati Max Hospital, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform brainstem glioma. MediFyr helps you compare neurosurgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for brainstem glioma compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 4,895 – USD 13,052 | 7-14 days | ~ Several weeks to months for initial functional recovery; long-term rehabilitation may be ongoing. | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 36,236 – USD 96,630 | 7-14 days | ~ Several weeks to months for initial functional recovery; long-term rehabilitation may be ongoing. | Know More |
Top hospitals for Brainstem Glioma in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing brainstem glioma.
Bangalore, India
48 Doctors
At my age, you worry about...
At my age, you worry about being a bother. Dr. Narayanamurthy never made me feel that way. He explained my medication changes slowly, and his manner was very calming. The clinic at MGM was busy, but he took his time.
Neurosurgeons for Brainstem Glioma
Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform brainstem glioma and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 23 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 23 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Metro Hospital Faridabad
- 21 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Metro Hospital Faridabad
- 18 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 11 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 10 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Miot Hospital Chennai
- 21 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake
- 31 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass
- 26 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass
- 10 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Dwarka
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Dwarka
- 15 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass
- 23 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Dwarka
- 41 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Goa
- 17 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Baner
- 6 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Baner
- 15 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Goa