Pregnancy is usually a time filled with happiness and hope, plans for the new addition to the family, and pampering. But for some expecting moms, that journey can be jolted by an unexpected and very rare diagnosis — one of a brain tumour.

Pregnancy already brings significant physical changes, emotional ups and downs, and constant monitoring of health. The presence of a brain tumour during this time turns the situation into one of the most complex medical scenarios a person can face. In such cases, two lives are at stake, and every decision must be made with caution, deliberation, and careful consideration.

Diagnosis and Initial Assessment

Identifying a brain tumour diagnosis in a pregnant woman is particularly challenging because many of the symptoms of brain tumours usually share common physiological changes and discomforts associated with pregnancy. Nausea, vomiting, persistent headaches, and dizziness are common during pregnancy, but they are also key warning signals of a brain tumour.

This overlap often leads to misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis, as medical professionals may initially attribute the symptoms as pregnancy-related discomfort. When these symptoms persist or worsen, imaging is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)is the preferred method, as it provides detailed images without radiation and is considered safe during pregnancy. In some cases, additional tests or a biopsy may be required if the type of tumour is unclear.

Computed Tomography (CT) scans are generally avoided during pregnancy as they use ionising radiation, which is a risk to the foetus.

Diagnosis of brain tumours during pregnancy is typically established through a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, neurologists, and radiologists. Once the type of tumour is confirmed, the medical team considers several key questions:

1. Is it a low-grade or a high-grade tumour?
2.  Is it causing pressure on the brain?
3.  How far along is the pregnancy?

Tumours that are slow growing, such as meningiomas, may be monitored closely until it is safe to give treatment (particularly either in the second trimester or after delivery). More aggressive tumours like glioblastomas may require immediate action, even in early pregnancy.

Impact of Pregnancy on Tumours

Pregnancy causes major physiological changes in a woman, including increased levels of hormones like oestrogen and a rise in blood volume. These changes can, in some cases, accelerate the growth of the tumour.

Treatment Considerations

Treatment of brain tumours in pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach that carefully considers the safety and health of both the mother and the foetus. Treatment plans are highly individualised and depend on several factors, including the type and location of the tumour, its rate of growth, the patient’s symptoms, and the stage of pregnancy.

Surgery is often recommended if the tumour is causing increasing intracranial pressure, bleeding, or severe symptoms. The second trimester is considered to be the safest period for a surgery, as the risk to the foetus is lower than in the first trimester and the uterus is not yet large enough to complicate things.

If the patient is in the third trimester, doctors may consider scheduling an early delivery (typically between 32 to 36 weeks) so that surgery or additional treatment can begin promptly afterward.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are typically delayed until after delivery unless the situation is urgent. Some chemotherapy agents may be used during the second or third trimester with caution, but they are usually avoided in the first trimester due to the high risk of birth defects.

Delivery Considerations

Delivery planning in this context involves careful coordination among obstetricians, neurosurgeons, and anaesthesiologists. When and how to schedule the delivery depends on several factors:

Timing

• If the tumour is stable and not causing significant symptoms, delivery may proceed at full term (around 39 to 40 weeks).
• If the tumour is aggressive or the mother’s condition is worsening, an early delivery (32 to 36 weeks) may be recommended to allow prompt treatment.
• In the case of a medical emergency, such as seizures or brain swelling, an emergency delivery may be performed at any gestational age to protect the mother’s life.

Mode of delivery

• If the tumour affects the mother’s ability to safely go through labour—for example, due to increased intracranial pressure—then a C-section is usually recommended to minimise the risk of complications during delivery.
• If the tumour is small and not causing pressure-related symptoms, vaginal delivery may still be an option.

Psychological considerations

A brain tumour diagnosis is inherently a life-changing and traumatic event. When it occurs during pregnancy, it introduces an additional layer of emotional and psychological distress. This can impact the overall well-being of the patient.

Patients commonly experience:

• Heightened anxiety
• Depression
• Guilt or fear about the baby’s future
• Emotional isolation

Recognising and addressing these emotional needs is essential. Mental health support—through counselling, support groups, or psychiatric care—should be an integral part of treatment.

Conclusion

A brain tumour diagnosis during pregnancy presents one of the most complex, rare, and emotionally challenging medical scenarios. It requires highly individualised care, constant re-evaluation, and a coordinated effort across multiple specialities.

With thoughtful planning and compassionate support, it is possible to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. The path may be difficult, but patients do not have to face it alone; with the right care, there is hope for a safe outcome.

The post A Personal Journey of Expecting a Child While Confronting a Brain Tumour appeared first on NRI News.

Brain tumours, though commonly feared as cancerous, are not always malignant. They are broadly classified into malignant (cancerous) and benign (non-cancerous) tumours. While malignant tumours grow aggressively and can spread to surrounding tissues, benign tumours grow slowly and do not spread, but can still cause significant problems depending on their size and location within the brain. Regardless of type, both require medical attention due to the critical functions governed by different parts of the brain.

Early detection plays a vital role in improving outcomes, minimising complications, and enabling timely treatment. Symptoms often vary based on the tumour’s size, type, and specific location in the brain, but certain signs should prompt a medical consultation.

One of the most common early symptoms is a persistent headache, which may worsen over time and is often more intense in the early morning or when lying down. These headaches are usually different from typical tension headaches and may be associated with nausea or vomiting that has no obvious cause.

Visual disturbances such as blurred or double vision, partial vision loss, or abnormal eye movements can signal pressure on the optic nerves. Similarly, hearing issues or ringing in the ears may occur if the tumour affects auditory pathways.

Cognitive or personality changes such as confusion, memory problems, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating are important early indicators, especially when they are new or progressively worsening. In children, such changes may show up as poor school performance or developmental regression.

Seizures in someone with no previous history of epilepsy should always be investigated, as they can be the first noticeable symptom of a brain tumour. Other neurological signs like numbness, weakness, or lack of coordination, especially on one side of the body, are also concerning.

Speech difficulties, such as trouble understanding or forming words, and imbalance or dizziness, especially when walking, may suggest tumour involvement in language or motor control areas of the brain.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with more common, less serious conditions. However, if they are persistent, progressive, or unexplained, it is crucial to consult a neurologist. Brain imaging, like MRI or CT scans, can help confirm the diagnosis early.

Raising awareness about these warning signs empowers patients and families to seek help sooner. Whether benign or malignant, early detection of brain tumours significantly improves the chances of effective treatment and a better quality of life.

The post A Guide for Patients and Families on Early Brain Tumour Detection appeared first on NRI News.

Pregnancy is usually a time filled with happiness and hope, plans for the new addition to the family, and pampering. But for some expecting moms, that journey can be jolted by an unexpected and infrequent diagnosis — one of a brain tumour.

Pregnancy already brings significant physical changes, emotional ups and downs, and constant monitoring of health. The presence of a brain tumour during this time turns the situation into one of the most complex medical scenarios a person can face. Two lives are at stake in such cases, and every decision must be made with caution, deliberation, and careful consideration.

Diagnosis and Initial Assessment

Identifying a brain tumour diagnosis in a pregnant woman is particularly challenging because many of the symptoms of brain tumours usually share common physiological changes and discomforts associated with pregnancy. Nausea, vomiting, persistent headaches, and dizziness are common during pregnancy, but they are also key warning signals of a brain tumour.

This overlap often leads to misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis, as medical professionals may initially attribute the symptoms to pregnancy-related discomfort. When these symptoms persist or worsen, imaging is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)is the preferred method, as it provides detailed images without radiation and is considered safe during pregnancy. In some cases, additional tests or a biopsy may be required if the type of tumour is unclear.

Computed Tomography (CT) scans are generally avoided during pregnancy as they use ionising radiation, which is a risk to the foetus.

Diagnosis of brain tumours during pregnancy is typically established through a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, neurologists, and radiologists. Once the type of tumour is confirmed, the medical team considers several key questions:

1. Is it a low-grade or a high-grade tumour?
2.  Is it causing pressure on the brain?
3.  How far along is the pregnancy?

Tumours that are slow growing, such as meningiomas, may be monitored closely until it is safe to give treatment (particularly either in the second trimester or after delivery). More aggressive tumours like glioblastomas may require immediate action, even in early pregnancy.

Impact of Pregnancy on Tumours

Pregnancy causes major physiological changes in a woman, including increased levels of hormones like oestrogen and a rise in blood volume. These changes can, in some cases, accelerate the growth of the tumour.

Treatment Considerations

Treatment of brain tumours in pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach that carefully considers the safety and health of both the mother and the foetus. Treatment plans are highly individualised and depend on several factors, including the type and location of the tumour, its rate of growth, the patient’s symptoms, and the stage of pregnancy.

Surgery is often recommended if the tumour is causing increasing intracranial pressure, bleeding, or severe symptoms. The second trimester is considered to be the safest period for a surgery, as the risk to the foetus is lower than in the first trimester and the uterus is not yet large enough to complicate things.

If the patient is in the third trimester, doctors may consider scheduling an early delivery (typically between 32 to 36 weeks) so that surgery or additional treatment can begin promptly afterward.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are typically delayed until after delivery unless the situation is urgent. Some chemotherapy agents may be used during the second or third trimester with caution, but they are usually avoided in the first trimester due to the high risk of birth defects.

Delivery Considerations

Delivery planning in this context involves careful coordination among obstetricians, neurosurgeons, and anaesthesiologists. When and how to schedule the delivery depends on several factors:

Timing

• If the tumour is stable and not causing significant symptoms, delivery may proceed at full term (around 39 to 40 weeks).
• If the tumour is aggressive or the mother’s condition is worsening, an early delivery (32 to 36 weeks) may be recommended to allow prompt treatment.
• In the case of a medical emergency, such as seizures or brain swelling, an emergency delivery may be performed at any gestational age to protect the mother’s life.

Mode of delivery

• If the tumour affects the mother’s ability to safely go through labour—for example, due to increased intracranial pressure—then a C-section is usually recommended to minimise the risk of complications during delivery.
• If the tumour is small and not causing pressure-related symptoms, vaginal delivery may still be an option.

Psychological considerations

A brain tumour diagnosis is inherently a life-changing and traumatic event. When it occurs during pregnancy, it introduces an additional layer of emotional and psychological distress. This can impact the overall well-being of the patient.

Patients commonly experience:

• Heightened anxiety
• Depression
• Guilt or fear about the baby’s future
• Emotional isolation

Recognising and addressing these emotional needs is essential. Mental health support—through counselling, support groups, or psychiatric care—should be an integral part of treatment.

Conclusion

A brain tumour diagnosis during pregnancy presents one of the most complex, rare, and emotionally challenging medical scenarios. It requires highly individualised care, constant re-evaluation, and a coordinated effort across multiple specialities.

With thoughtful planning and compassionate support, it is possible to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. The path may be difficult, but patients do not have to face it alone; with the right care, there is hope for a safe outcome.

The post How to Cope with a Brain Tumour While Expecting a Child appeared first on NRI News.

By Dr. Sathyanarayana L.D, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Narayana Health, Bengaluru.

A common but neglected complication

Language is central to how we think, relate, and exist in the world. Speech involves the ability to use movements of the tongue, lips, jaw muscles, and vocal tract to produce sounds. Aphasia (sometimes called dysphasia) is a broad-spectrum acquired language disorder affecting a person’s ability to process, use, and/or understand language. It can affect all forms of language – speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Aphasia can cause frustration and stress for an individual living with it, as well as for their caregiver. Research indicates that about 30 percent of patients who undergo brain tumor surgery in the language-dominant hemisphere (typically the left side) develop some form of aphasia. Yet, despite its prevalence and impact, aphasia remains an under-addressed concern in post-operative care across India.

Aphasia can vary from mild degree wherein there is trouble understanding long messages and needing a little extra time to understand and respond to spoken messages and difficulty finding words to express or explain an idea to severe degree in which there is little to no ability to speak, read or write or using a combination of words and jargon that is not understood by others and being unaware of own errors.

Location of the tumour

Whether and how a brain tumor affects a person depends on where it is in the brain. Each section or lobe of the brain is responsible for different functions, some of which are involved in communication. For example, the frontal lobe is involved in language production (how we express ourselves), and the temporal lobe is involved in understanding what others are saying to us and how our thought processes work. As a result, pressure from a tumor in one of these areas of the brain can affect the ability to speak and understand what others are saying. Areas of the brain controlling language are generally found in the left hemisphere, so if this is where the tumor is, a person is more likely to experience language and speech difficulties.

However, in some cases speech centre is found in the right hemisphere, for instance, especially with left-handed people. Because our brains are responsible for controlling the muscles needed to produce speech, a brain tumor can also cause difficulty speaking by interrupting some signals being sent to the mouth, dysarthria. Brain tumors can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A tumor can cause aphasia if it impacts the brain’s language centers. Aphasia due to cancer is called neoplastic aphasia.

The most common type of aphasia due to a brain tumor is anomic aphasia. Aphasia due to brain tumors is more likely to be short-term and milder than post-stroke aphasia. The outcome and prognosis for cancer-related aphasia are also dependent on the success of the medical treatment. If the tumor is treated successfully, the aphasia is likely to resolve.

Types of aphasia:

• Expressive aphasia: Difficulty speaking or finding the right words
• Receptive aphasia: Difficulty understanding spoken language or written words
• Global aphasia: A severe form of aphasia affecting both speech production and language comprehension

Why Early Therapy Matters

Slow-growing brain tumors in the left cerebral hemisphere can impact the brain. For patients recovering from brain tumour surgery, this vital faculty is sometimes the most painful loss. Timely and individualized speech therapy plays a critical role in helping the brain reorganize and compensate for lost function — a process known as neuroplasticity. This could mean that if the tumor is impacting a language center, the brain can shift language processing to another part of the brain. The first three to six months after surgery are a golden window for recovery.  There are dozens of ways that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) treat aphasia. The type of treatment a person receives is generally determined by the type of aphasia he or she has, as well as the severity of it. However, it can also be guided by the needs of individual patients and their families as it relates to activities of daily living.

What can be done

• Integrate speech therapy into standard post-operative protocols
• Strengthen the workforce and training
• Harness teletherapy and digital health tools
• Support families and caregivers
• Include rehabilitation under insurance and public health schemes

Giving Voice to Recovery

Aphasia doesn’t kill, but it can erase identity, self-worth, and connection. In a society where verbal communication dominates, losing language means losing participation. Yet, with appropriate therapy and support, many patients make remarkable recoveries. The challenge is not healthcare possibility, but access and awareness.

The time has come to treat rehabilitation as essential, not optional. In India’s expanding neurosurgical landscape, we cannot afford to let patients survive surgery only to live in silence. They deserve more than survival; they deserve to be heard. I advocate a multidisciplinary, integrated approach to neuro-rehabilitation and particularly speech therapy. Speech-language therapy is to be initiated during inpatient recovery for at-risk patients and continued via outpatient or tele-rehabilitation pathways.

The post The Unseen Challenges of Aphasia After Brain Tumour Surgery appeared first on NRI News.

Every year, over 40,000 individuals in India are diagnosed with brain tumours, according to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Yet, in many cases, the diagnosis comes too late. The early warning signs—often subtle, fleeting, or mistaken for everyday stress—are overlooked until symptoms become severe.

As we mark World Brain Tumour Day on June 8, it’s vital to recognise that timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary care can make a significant difference in not only survival, but also in long-term recovery and quality of life for patients and their families.

When the Body Whispers

Brain tumours are complex. They vary in type, location, and behaviour—and so do their symptoms. In clinical practice, I often see patients who, in hindsight, experienced signs long before their diagnosis. These early symptoms are frequently dismissed as benign issues: a tension headache, forgetfulness, vision strain, or clumsiness.

Common symptoms of brain tumours include:

• Persistent or worsening headaches
• Memory lapses or personality changes
• Difficulty in speaking or finding words
• Blurred or double vision
• New-onset seizures
• Trouble with balance or coordination

The key challenge is that these symptoms can appear mild or sporadic, leading to delays in seeking medical attention. But when the brain is affected—even subtly—it often tries to signal distress. We need to listen more closely.

Children Are Not Immune

One of the most overlooked realities is that brain tumours affect children too. Among paediatric populations, tumours in the cerebellum, such as medulloblastoma, are relatively common. The signs, however, may not always be easy to spot.

 In children, red flags include:

• Headaches, especially in the morning
• Repeated vomiting without a clear cause
• Unsteady gait or difficulty walking
• Clumsiness or frequent falls

Unlike adults, children may not articulate their discomfort clearly. A parent’s intuition, in such cases, becomes crucial. Prompt neurological evaluation can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, which significantly improves outcomes. With timely surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and structured rehabilitation, many children not only survive but go on to live full, healthy adult lives.

The Ripple Effects of a Brain Tumour

The impact of a brain tumour extends far beyond the individual. It disrupts family dynamics, imposes financial burdens, and creates emotional strain for caregivers. It can affect workplace productivity and community engagement. That is why recovery must be viewed not just through a medical lens but a social one.

When treated early, many patients return to school, work, and community life. The difference lies in how quickly the tumour is recognised and how comprehensively it is managed.

The Power of Modern Tools and Teamwork

At Narayana Health City, we have seen firsthand how the combination of technology and teamwork improves outcomes. Our neuro-oncology team uses a suite of advanced tools designed to enhance precision and safety:

Neuronavigation systems function like GPS during surgery, guiding the surgeon with remarkable accuracy.

High-resolution operating microscopes allow us to see deep brain structures.

Awake craniotomy enables patients to stay awake during surgery to protect speech and movement centres.

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring helps preserve critical brain functions during complex procedures.

Comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation ensures that recovery continues well beyond the operating room.

These innovations help us safely access delicate regions of the brain while preserving the patient’s independence and cognitive function.

A Realistic, Hopeful Outlook

While early detection improves prognosis, it’s important to acknowledge that not all brain tumours behave predictably. Some aggressive tumours may resist treatment even when diagnosed early. Others may lie dormant and symptom-free for extended periods. That said, the opportunity for meaningful intervention exists at nearly every stage.

Whether through surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiation, or supportive therapies, modern neuro-oncology offers real hope, particularly when treatment is tailored to the individual.

In Closing: Let’s Pay Attention

Brain tumours don’t always present dramatically. They may arrive disguised as a persistent headache, an uncharacteristic lapse in memory, or a subtle speech difficulty. In children, they may be hidden behind a morning vomit or a minor fall. These are not signs to ignore.

On this World Brain Tumour Day, let us renew our commitment to awareness and early action. By paying attention to the whispers, we can catch the signs sooner, act faster, and improve the lives of those affected. Because sometimes, listening to the smallest signals leads to the biggest difference.

The post Understanding Brain Tumours appeared first on NRI News.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death, the third leading cause of disability worldwide, and is responsible for 160 million years of healthy life lost each year. The impact on individuals, families, and society is incalculable. This award acknowledges the hospital’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in treating stroke patients. Facilities at Sahyadri Hospitals include a dedicated Neuro ICU, which is a specialized intensive care unit focusing on patients with severe neurological issues. The hospital also boasts a dedicated stroke team led by Dr Nasli Ichaporia, specialized in quickly and effectively treating stroke emergencies. The hospital uses benchmarking for thrombolysis and can minimize the effects of a stroke. Additionally, Sahyadri Hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for mechanical thrombectomy to remove clots from the brain in certain stroke patients, performed by expert clinical leaders using advanced technology.

Recognition has also come from the World Stroke Organisation (WSO)/Angels award committee, which grants awards to hospitals that provide effective data and demonstrate effective care and treatment delivery according to a set of specific criteria. Sahyadri Hospitals has received the Diamond award, the highest level, for quality stroke care for 14 consecutive quarters. This award is part of a program that emphasizes continuous data capturing and analysis to identify and address areas for improvement in brain stroke care.

Dr. Sunil Rao, Chief Operating Officer and Medical Director at Sahyadri Group of Hospitals, remarked, “Receiving the NABH certification is not just about meeting high standards—it’s about exceeding them and establishing new benchmarks in healthcare. This recognition is a clear reflection of our relentless dedication to providing top-quality care and ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients. As one of the first hospitals in India to achieve this milestone, we are immensely proud. We remain committed to maintaining these rigorous standards across all our facilities.”

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PUNE: A 57-year-old female patient, who had been experiencing severe headaches and difficulty walking, has made a remarkable recovery after undergoing a complex neurosurgical procedure at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar. The patient, who had visited multiple hospitals in the city before coming to Sahyadri, was diagnosed with multiple meningiomas located at the craniovertebral junction, a rare condition where two or more nonmalignant brain tumors develop in different areas of the brain, occurring in only 1%–10% of cases.

Dr. Siraj Basade, Senior Neurosurgeon at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar led the delicate and highly complex surgery that resulted in a complete tumor excision. The procedure was guided by the latest intra-operative neuro-monitoring and ultrasound technology, which played a crucial role in ensuring the safe and successful removal of the tumor.

The patient initially came to the hospital with symptoms of raised intracranial pressure (increased pressure in the brain), along with weakness in her arms and stiffness in her legs, which made walking difficult. An MRI scan showed that the largest tumor was pressing against the cerebellopontine angle and displacing key structures like the vertebral artery and the spinal cord. This was also blocking the flow of fluid in her brain, leading to her severe headaches.

“This advanced technology allowed us to safely navigate around critical parts of the brain and successfully remove the tumor without causing damage,” explained Dr. Siraj Basade. “The use of intra-operative neuro-monitoring and ultrasound was key to ensuring the patient’s safety during such a delicate procedure.”

To relieve the pressure, doctors first performed a procedure called a VP (ventriculoperitoneal) shunt to drain the excess fluid from her brain, which immediately reduced her headaches. Once stabilized, the patient underwent a more complex surgery, called a posterior fossa craniotomy, where the skull was opened at the back of the head to access and remove the tumors. The surgery was guided by special monitoring equipment to ensure the procedure was safe and successful.

Post-surgery, the patient experienced a dramatic improvement in her condition. She regained her ability to walk normally and muscle strength with the help of physiotherapy and has made a full recovery. This case represents one of the rarest occurrences, as only one in lakhs of brain tumor patients present with such a unique condition involving the brainstem.

Dr. Basade emphasized the importance of the advanced surgical techniques used in this case, “This patient had a very rare and complex tumor, and without the use of intra-operative neuro-monitoring and ultrasound, the surgery could have posed significant risks. The technology allowed us to navigate around critical structures, such as the vertebral artery and cervical cord, to ensure a safe and complete tumor removal.”

The patient and her family expressed their gratitude to the medical team at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital for the expert care they received. “We had visited several hospitals in Pune, but it was here at Sahyadri that we found hope. We are forever grateful to Dr. Basade and Sahyadri team for giving us our life back,” said the patient’s family.

This case underscores Sahyadri Hospital’s commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to provide the highest quality of care to patients, particularly in such complex neurosurgical cases.

The post Sahyadri Hospitals Triumphs in Removing a Rare and Complex Brain Tumor appeared first on NRI News.

GURUGRAM: Fortis Memorial Research Institute proudly announces the launch of the South Asia’s First Gamma Knife Esprit. This groundbreaking version of the Leksell Gamma Knife® heralds a new era in the non-surgical high precision treatment of brain tumours, greatly enhancing therapeutic options for both malignant, benign brain tumours and other abnormalities of Brain.

The Gamma Knife employs computer-guided precision to target brain tumours without actual cutting, making it an optimal choice for treating both malignant and benign tumours, including multiple brain metastases, meningiomas, acoustic tumours, and pituitary adenomas. Its precision is crucial for tumours in sensitive or hard-to-reach brain areas with sparing healthy brain tissues and allows patients to return to daily activities almost immediately. Further, radiation therapy for multiple brain metastasis requires almost 30 sessions, in contrast, Gamma Knife radiosurgery consolidates the entire treatment into a single session with same day discharge, making the treatment swift and efficient. Additionally, Gamma Knife can treat multiple metastasis in a single session irrespective of metastatic lesions involved, a benefit not offered by other technologies. This method significantly minimizes radiation exposure to healthy tissues, preserving motor, sensory nerve and neurocognitive function enabling rapid recovery and improved healthy quality of life after treatment. Thus, Gamma Knife radiosurgery is considered as the gold standard for brain radiosurgery worldwide. The procedure can be performed using either frame-based or frameless methods, for personalized care for the patients with comfortable treatment experience and is followed by stereotactic MRI to ensure precise treatment delivery.

Fortis Healthcare has introduced Gamma Knife technology, a time-tested, reliable method with extensive clinical validation and high confidence among clinicians and patients across India and worldwide. This integrated and efficient system boasts a guaranteed accuracy of 0.3 mm, delivering doses to healthy brain tissue that are 2–4x lower than other technologies, with 2–21x lower extracranial doses. This highest accuracy and precision in Gamma knife reduces toxicities and side effects to normal brain. Gamma Knife ensures high success rate for controlling brain tumours and other brain conditions with minimal side effects. Gamma Knife radiosurgery boasts an impressive track record with a control rate surpassing 95% over a span of 10 years, providing reassuring long-term relief.

Dr. Sandeep Vaishya, Director Neurosurgery, Fortis Gurgaon, said “The launch of South Asia’s first Gamma Knife Esprit at our facility marks a significant milestone in the field of neurosurgery. This advanced technology brings a level of precision to neurosurgical procedures that was previously unattainable, targeting brain tumours with pinpoint accuracy. The Gamma Knife Esprit minimizes the radiation exposure to healthy tissues which is crucial for reducing potential side effects. This capability allows us to enhance patient safety and comfort significantly, thus optimizing the recovery process. By drastically cutting down recovery times, we are not only improving clinical outcomes but also enhancing the overall patient experience. This is a step forward in our ongoing effort to push the boundaries of what’s possible in medical treatment and patient care.”

Anil Vinayak, Group COO, Fortis Healthcare, elaborated on the broader vision of Fortis as a leader in comprehensive cancer care: “Deploying the first Gamma Knife Esprit in South Asia is a testament to Fortis Healthcare’s commitment in integrating cutting-edge technologies in neurosurgery and holistic cancer care. Our commitment extends beyond just offering advanced treatments; it encompasses providing comprehensive care that enhances the overall patient journey and outcomes. This initiative is another step in reinforcing our position at the forefront of medical innovation and patient-centric care across the region.”

Jan Thesleff, Amabassador of Sweden to India, who is the Chief Guest at the inauguration, said, “As the Chief Guest at the launch of the most advanced Gamma Knife Esprit at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) in Gurgaon, I am deeply honoured to witness the pioneering collaboration between Swedish companies like Elekta and India’s leading healthcare chain, Fortis Healthcare. This landmark introduction of precision radiosurgery technology, the first of its kind in South Asia, underscores the transformative impact of our partnership and FMRI’s dedication to advancing healthcare excellence. Swedish companies are renowned for their leadership in healthcare innovation, and through initiatives like this, we are collectively bridging gaps in advanced medical treatments, ensuring patients in the region have access to cutting-edge care. Our continued collaboration between Sweden and India, particularly with Fortis Healthcare, is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare. I eagerly anticipate the continued success of our partnerships and the delivery of sustainable healthcare solutions for all.”

The Department of Neurosurgery at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram offers a comprehensive range of services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. These services include a wide spectrum of brain surgeries, ranging from intracranial tumours, skull base surgery, and deep brain stimulation surgery to brain aneurysm and AVMs (endovascular/surgery), epilepsy surgery, head injury, stroke, endoscopic surgery, and hydrocephalus surgery.  Additionally, the department provides various spine surgeries, including cervical and lumbar disc surgeries, degenerative spine surgeries, surgeries for spine tumours, spinal tuberculosis, spinal injuries, and fractures. These procedures are performed using image guidance and intraoperative imaging, with many surgeries conducted through keyhole incisions. The department boasts a dedicated and highly qualified team of neurosurgeons, neuro-anaesthetists, intensive care specialists, and related technical support staff.

Equipped with the latest technology and equipment, the department ensures successful procedures and promotes speedy recovery with minimal discomfort for patients. The addition of Gamma Knife technology reaffirms Fortis’s commitment to leading innovations that revolutionise lives.

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BENGALURU: In a ground-breaking surgical achievement, a 67-year-old woman from Bangalore has successfully undergone an innovative and pioneering procedure to remove a tumor from her skull base through her mouth. Mangala (name changed) was presented with a 2×2 cm tumor behind her upper jaw. What made the procedure unique was the location which was a challenging one; it was behind the upper jaw in the parapharyngeal space, a narrow corridor that extends from the upper neck to the skull base. It was in proximity (around 1.2 cm) to the internal carotid artery, the main artery that supplies blood to the brain, as well as multiple cranial nerves that control tongue movement, voice, and shoulder function.

Conventional approaches would involve splitting the lower jawbone or creating a controlled fracture of the upper jawbone to move it out of the way for access. The concern with endoscopic removal was that it would require removal in pieces and not whole, leading to spillage and a higher chance of recurrence. Robotic surgery was also not considered as conventional robotic surgery does not involve drilling away from the bone, which was required to provide access in this case. To reduce the trauma associated with surgery and recovery, the team of expert doctors at SPARSH Hospital used a novel approach, where the entire approach was through the mouth, and the access was by removing the posterior aspect of the upper jaw bone and displacing the muscles to create a corridor to completely remove the tumor.

Speaking on the success of this innovative surgery, Dr. Narayana Subramaniam, Director – Head & Neck Surgery, Oncology, and Director – Clinical Innovation, at SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore says, “This was a novel approach for a novel tumor. By devising this approach, we were able to access this tumor and remove it completely without splitting the upper or lower jaw and avoiding any incisions on the face. She also had a smooth recovery with no weakness of any major cranial nerves or intra-operative bleeding, which is common with conventional approaches. Complex head and neck surgery requires a patient-centric approach, extensive expertise, and lots of teamwork, which enables excellent outcomes.“

In this remarkable surgical accomplishment, the two-and-a-half-hour procedure ended in a smooth recovery for Mangala. SPARSH Hospital takes pride in this exceptional surgical achievement, showcasing its commitment to innovative and patient-centric care. This phenomenal success highlights the dedication to advancing healthcare through progressive solutions for patients dealing with complicated medical challenges. 

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While it is true that headaches are one of the most common symptoms associated with brain cancer, they are not always the first indicator. Dr. Pravin further highlights that in the case of brain tumors, headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms that may vary depending on the tumor’s location and size. If left untreated over time, these tumors can lead to severe complications such as permanent neurological damage including difficulty with speech and memory problems.

Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, visual disturbances such as blurred vision or double vision as well as speech difficulties and loss of coordination. In case the person experiences persistent headaches or any other unusual symptoms such as seizures or changes in vision, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early detection is crucial when dealing with brain tumors since early treatment increases your chances of successful recovery.

In some cases, brain tumors can also cause hormonal imbalances leading to weight gain/loss and changes in menstrual cycles for women. It’s important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to brain tumors but could be caused by other medical conditions as well.

Dr. Pravin also says that if a person is experiencing any persistent symptoms in daily life, there is an urgent need to seek advice from the doctor who may refer for further investigations such as MRI scans. Early detection ensures better treatment outcomes.

Treatment for a brain tumor may involve surgery if it is accessible; chemotherapy to kill cancer cells through medication; radiation therapy that uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells; targeted drug treatment among others.

Photo by Matteo Vistocco on Unsplash

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