Learn about Brainstem Glioma Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Brainstem Glioma and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Brainstem Glioma

Brainstem glioma surgery is a highly specialized neurosurgical procedure performed to remove or biopsy tumors located in the brainstem, the critical region connecting the brain to the spinal cord that controls vital functions like breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. Due to the delicate and complex nature of this area, the procedure is typically performed using advanced techniques such as intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) and neuronavigation to maximize tumor removal while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The goal is to relieve pressure on the brainstem, obtain a tissue diagnosis, and potentially improve neurological symptoms. This surgery is often part of a multimodal treatment plan that may include radiation and chemotherapy, and it requires a team of experienced neurosurgeons, neurologists, and oncologists.

Key Highlights

    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.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
  • checked 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 Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

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 Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing brainstem glioma.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

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 Turkey.

Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Baran Yilmaz
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Savaş Ceylan
  • 37 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Savaş Ceylan
  • 37 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Savaş Ceylan
  • 37 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Savaş Ceylan
  • 37 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Akın Akakın
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
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