The Neurosurgery Centre treats many brain conditions.
Our specialists mainly treat the following brain conditions:
Craniocerebral tumours
What is a craniocerebral tumour?
There are many types of craniocerebral tumour, which can be benign or malignant. Each has its own biological behaviour and can cause different symptoms. The tumour (or neoplasty) may originate from the nervous system or its envelope (meninges) or come from a tumour located elsewhere in the body (this is referred to as metastasis). Each entity thus requires a specific and tailored treatment.
Symptoms
The following symptom(s) may appear:
- headache
- epileptic seizures
- dizziness and lightheadedness
- motor or sensory deficits
- nausea/vomiting
- auditory, visual or linguistic problems
- change in behaviour
Diagnosis
This is based on medical history, a clinical examination and additional cerebral imaging.
Treatment
Each case is unique and its treatment is tailored to the patient. The most suitable treatment for the patient is defined on a case-by-case basis by a multidisciplinary team that includes a neurosurgeon. With regard to malignant tumours, oncological and/or radiation oncological treatment is also organised.
Hydrocephalus and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders
What is hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is characterised by excessive cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which impairs brain function.
Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Problems walking
- Cognitive limitations
- Urinary incontinence
- Disturbances in consciousness
- Impaired development
Diagnosis
It is mainly cerebral imaging (MRI or CT scan) that allows hydrocephalus to be diagnosed. In some cases, it is necessary to perform a lumbar puncture to provide a more in-depth diagnosis and decide on the patient’s treatment.
Treatment
Hydrocephalus may require the implantation of a cerebrospinal fluid shunt from the brain to another compartment of the body (e.g. the abdomen) using a silicone drain implanted by a neurosurgeon.
Other CSF problems exist, and in some cases it may be necessary to perform invasive intracranial pressure measurements before determining the best treatment strategy.
Craniocerebral trauma
What is craniocerebral trauma?
This refers to a deterioration in brain function due to a cranial trauma, such as those sustained in an accident or even an everyday fall.
Symptoms
- Short-term or prolonged consciousness problems (confusion or even coma)
- Problems with one or more brain functions
Diagnosis
The presence and extent of injuries following a craniocerebral trauma are determined following a medical examination of the patient and, if necessary, the stabilisation of the patient’s vital functions, by means of:
- Cerebral imaging (MRI, CT scan)
- Electrophysiological examinations (in some cases)
Treatment
Following a craniocerebral trauma, inpatient treatment may be required in order to monitor the patient’s development, in some cases in intensive care.
Depending on the extent of the injuries to the nervous system, neurosurgical treatment may need to be provided.
