Open Brain Surgery with Brachytherapy for Malignant Glioma
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What do I need to know about open brain surgery with brachytherapy?
This surgery is used to remove a tumor from your brain.
How do I prepare for surgery?
- Your surgeon will tell you how to prepare for surgery. He or she may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. Arrange to have someone drive you home after surgery.
- Tell your surgeon about all medicines you currently take. He or she will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for surgery, and when to stop. He or she will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of surgery.
- You may need blood tests or an EKG before your surgery. You may also need x-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.
What will happen during surgery?
Your surgeon will place your head in a clamp to hold it in position. He or she will make an incision in your scalp and remove a small piece of skull bone. The glioma will be removed, and radiation therapy will be placed in the area where your glioma was. The piece of bone will be replaced. Your surgeon will close the incision with stitches or staples. A bandage may be placed over the incision.
What are the risks of open brain surgery with brachytherapy?
You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. Blood vessels or other healthy tissue may be damaged during surgery. The radiation may cause brain swelling, a decrease in brain function, or a stroke. Your tumor may not be completely removed. You may develop a life-threatening blood clot.
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