Endoscopic Resection of Colloid Cyst Brain Tumor
Neurosurgeons at Emory are now removing colloid cysts, or benign cystic tumors from deep within the brain, through small incisions and openings in the skull no larger than the size of a pea with the use of a 6-millimeter endoscope (fiberoptic camera).
Visualization by the endoscope allows for identification of colloid cysts in the third ventricle, thus allowing small instruments (2-millimeters) to pass through openings at the end of the endoscope to remove these tumors. Deep seated colloid cystic tumors can cause obstructive hydrocephalus, an increased build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. Blockage of the normal flow of CSF can lead to increased intracranial pressure, resulting in headache, vertigo, memory impairment, weakness of limbs, behavioral changes and even sudden death.
Patient Advantages:
- This novel colloid cyst treatment alleviates the need to fully open the skull to remove cystic brain tumors, meaning fewer risks for neurologic injury because of less exposure of the brain, less operating time and shorter hospital stays for the patient.
- Much shorter recovery times mean patients can return to normal activities several days after colloid cyst surgery.
- Patients who have these cystic tumors removed using this minimally invasive technique have excellent outcomes.
