About Glioma
Key Highlights
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Aims for maximal safe tumor resection to preserve neurological function.Provides definitive tissue diagnosis for accurate grading and treatment planning.Can relieve symptoms caused by tumor mass effect, such as headaches and seizures.Utilizes advanced technology like neuro-navigation and intraoperative MRI for precision.Often the first critical step in a comprehensive, multimodal treatment plan.May involve awake brain mapping to protect vital areas controlling speech and movement./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Newly diagnosed brain mass suspected to be a glioma on imaging (MRI/CT).
- Progressive neurological symptoms like worsening headaches, seizures, weakness, or speech difficulties.
- Increasing tumor size or signs of malignancy on follow-up scans.
- Need for a tissue biopsy to confirm diagnosis and tumor grade (e.g., low-grade vs. high-grade glioma).
- To reduce intracranial pressure and mass effect caused by the tumor.
- As part of a treatment plan before starting radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive neurological examination and review of medical history.
- Advanced brain imaging (MRI with contrast, sometimes fMRI or DTI) for surgical planning.
- Pre-operative tests including blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray.
- Discussion of risks, benefits, and surgical goals with the neurosurgeon and team.
- Possible consultation with a neuro-oncologist and radiation oncologist.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before surgery as instructed.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (like blood thinners) as advised by the doctor.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: Infection, bleeding (hematoma), and reactions to anesthesia.
- Neurological deficits: New or worsened weakness, numbness, vision problems, or difficulty with speech (aphasia).
- Seizures during or after the procedure.
- Brain swelling (edema) requiring medication.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.
- Stroke or damage to critical brain areas.
- Incomplete tumor resection or recurrence.
- Risks associated with prolonged surgery, such as blood clots.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial monitoring in an ICU or specialized neurosurgical ward for 1-2 days.
- Management of pain, swelling, and prevention of seizures with medications.
- Gradual mobilization with assistance from physiotherapists.
- Close observation for any new neurological symptoms.
- Stitches or staples are typically removed 10-14 days post-surgery.
- Follow-up MRI scan within 48-72 hours to assess the extent of resection.
- Recovery of cognitive and physical function can take weeks to months, often involving rehabilitation.
- Regular follow-up with the neurosurgeon and oncology team for adjuvant therapy planning.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; full functional recovery may take several months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering glioma in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for glioma in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Cytecare Hospital, Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, 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 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 glioma compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 350 Thousand – 1.2 Million | 5-10 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; full functional recovery may take several months | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 1.23 Million – 4.2 Million | 5-10 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; full functional recovery may take several months | Know More |
Top hospitals for Glioma in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing glioma.
Karan Kumar, a 42-year-old software engineer...
Karan Kumar, a 42-year-old software engineer and father of two young children, began experiencing subtle but persistent changes. Over three months, he noticed his typing speed slowing down, occasional clumsiness with his right hand, and debilitating headaches that woke him at night. An MRI revealed a diffuse astrocytoma (Grade II glioma) in his left frontal lobe, near the motor cortex. His neurosurgeon, Dr. Sharma, recommended an awake craniotomy with intraoperative mapping to maximize tumor removal while preserving his critical hand function. During the 7-hour procedure, Karan was asked to move his fingers and name objects, ensuring safe resection. The surgery successfully removed over 90% of the tumor. Recovery was challenging, with fatigue and mild word-finding difficulties, but intensive speech and occupational therapy helped him regain nearly all function. Emotionally, Karan journeyed from terror at the diagnosis, fearing he wouldn't see his kids grow up, to profound gratitude and a new focus on life's precious moments after a successful surgery and a stable follow-up scan.
Neurosurgeons for Glioma
Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform glioma and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 18 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 22 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 10 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 29 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 19 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 17 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 17 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore
- 15 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 14 Years Experience
- Neurosurgeon
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada