Skull Base Surgery.

Skull base surgery is a complex and specialized type of surgery that is performed to treat a variety of conditions at the base of the skull. This area of the skull is home to important structures, including the brain, nerves, blood vessels, and the pituitary gland. Skull base surgery can be used to remove tumors, repair skull defects, and treat other conditions that affect this area.

Skull base surgery is a procedure that removes growths at the bottom of the skull. It can treat a range of cranial disorders, including: 

• Brain aneurysms

• Brain tumors

• Artery malformations

• Tumors at the base of the brain

• Diseases behind the eyes

• Diseases in the nasal cavity

Skull base surgery is performed by a team of specialists, including ENT surgeons, Maxillofacial surgeons, Neurosurgeons, and Radiologists.

There are two main types of skull base surgery:

Endoscopic skull base surgery: This is a minimally invasive type of surgery that uses an endoscope, a thin, lighted tube with a camera on the end, to visualize the surgical area. Endoscopic skull base surgery is often preferred over open skull base surgery because it is associated with less bleeding, shorter recovery times, and fewer complications.

Open skull base surgery: This is a more traditional type of surgery that involves making a larger incision in the scalp or face to access the surgical area. This type of surgery is often necessary for more complex conditions.

Pre-Operative Preparation for Skull Base Surgery

Before undergoing skull base surgery, you will need to undergo a thorough evaluation by your doctor. This evaluation will include a physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests. Your doctor will also discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you and help you make the best decision for your health.

During Skull Base Surgery

Skull base surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means that you will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure. The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the location and size of the tumor or lesion.

Endoscopic skull base surgery is performed using an endoscope, which is a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached. The endoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and allows the surgeon to see the surgical area in real time. The surgeon then uses specialized tools to remove the tumor or lesion.

Open skull base surgery involves making a larger incision in the scalp or face to access the surgical area. Once the surgical area is exposed, the surgeon removes the tumor or lesion.

Post-Operative Care for Skull Base Surgery

After skull base surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be closely monitored for any complications. You may also spend a few days in the hospital for further observation.

Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully during your recovery period. This may include taking medications, resting, and avoiding strenuous activity. It is also important to keep the incision clean and dry.

Complications of skull base surgery include: 

• Intracranial bleeding

• Blindness

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak

• Osteonecrosis

• Cerebral abscess

• Meningitis

• Cranial nerve neuropathies

• Cosmetic deformity

• Nerve Damage

• Hearing loss

Benefits of Skull Base Surgery

• Removal of tumors and other lesion

• Relieve pain and pressure

• Restore nerve function

• Improve vision

• Improve hearing

• Reduce the risk of complications

• Improve survival rates

Overall, skull base surgery can be a life-saving and life-changing procedure for patients with conditions affecting the base of the skull.

Who is a candidate for skull base surgery?

Not everyone is a candidate for skull base surgery. The best candidates for this procedure are patients who have:

• A tumor or other lesion that is located in the skull base

• A tumor or other lesion that is causing symptoms

• A tumor or other lesion that is likely to respond to surgery

• A good overall health status

• A team of experienced and qualified surgeons

If you are considering skull base surgery, it is important to talk to your doctor to see if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Your doctor can help you make the best decision for your health.

Here is a general timeline of the recovery process after skull base surgery:

• Weeks 1-2: You will likely experience some pain, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site. You will also need to rest and avoid strenuous activity.

• Weeks 3-4: The pain, swelling, and bruising should start to subside. You may be able to start resuming some of your normal activities.

• Weeks 5-8: You should be able to resume most of your normal activities. However, you may still experience some fatigue.

• Months 2-3: You should be fully recovered from the surgery. However, it may take several months for your scar to fully heal.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully during your recovery period. This will help to reduce your risk of complications and ensure that you have a full and successful recovery.

Here are some additional tips for recovering from skull base surgery:

• Get plenty of rest

• Eat a healthy diet

• Take your medications as prescribed

• Avoid strenuous activity

• Wear a brace or other device as instructed by your doctor

• Keep the surgical site clean and dry

• Go to your follow-up appointments

The cost of skull base surgery in Delhi can vary depending on the type of surgery, the hospital, the surgeon, and the patient's insurance coverage. However, in general, the cost of skull base surgery in Delhi ranges from INR 4 lakhs to INR 12 lakhs or more.

• Endoscopic skull base surgery: INR 4 lakhs to INR 6 lakhs

• Open skull base surgery: INR 6 lakhs to INR 12 lakhs

Factors that affect the cost of skull base surgery in Delhi:

• Type of surgery

• Hospital type

• Surgeon experience

• Patient's insurance coverage