About Skull Base Surgery
Key Highlights
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Targeted treatment for complex tumors and lesions at the base of the skull.Utilizes advanced techniques like endoscopic endonasal surgery for minimally invasive access.Aims for maximal lesion removal while preserving critical neurological function.Performed by highly specialized neurosurgeons, often in collaboration with ENT surgeons.Can address conditions previously considered inoperable.
Who is this surgery for?
- Benign and malignant tumors (e.g., pituitary adenoma, meningioma, chordoma, craniopharyngioma).
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks or encephaloceles.
- Vascular lesions like aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the region.
- Certain types of infections or inflammatory conditions.
- Traumatic injuries to the skull base.
- Treatment of severe, drug-resistant trigeminal neuralgia or other cranial nerve compression syndromes.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT, and sometimes angiography) to map the lesion and surrounding anatomy.
- Pre-operative consultations with neurosurgery, anesthesia, and possibly ENT and endocrinology teams.
- Medication review; stopping blood thinners as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
- Pre-operative tests like blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray.
- Discussion of the surgical plan, risks, and expected outcomes with the surgical team.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional repair.
- Injury to cranial nerves, potentially affecting vision, hearing, facial sensation, or movement.
- Stroke or damage to major blood vessels.
- Hormonal imbalances (if the pituitary gland is affected).
- Meningitis or brain infection.
- Persistent headache or neurological deficits.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in an intensive care unit (ICU) or high-dependency unit for close monitoring.
- Management of pain, nausea, and monitoring for signs of complications like CSF leak.
- Gradual mobilization with assistance; activity restrictions as advised.
- Possible need for hormone replacement therapy if the pituitary gland was involved.
- Follow-up imaging (MRI/CT) to assess the surgical outcome.
- Rehabilitation, which may include physical, occupational, or speech therapy, depending on the procedure's effects.
- Regular follow-up visits with the neurosurgeon and other specialists.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-14 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering skull base surgery in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for skull base surgery 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 skull base surgery. 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 skull base surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 3,263 – USD 16,315 | 5-14 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 24,158 – USD 120,788 | 5-14 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial recovery; full recovery may take several months | Know More |
Top hospitals for Skull Base Surgery in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing skull base surgery.
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 Skull Base Surgery
Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform skull base surgery 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