Pediatric Neurosurgery
The field of pediatric neurosurgery has advanced remarkably, making it possible to overcome many of the drawbacks associated with brain and nerve tumors. Technological advancements have played a crucial role, complemented by the indispensable human expertise required for such surgical procedures. Previously, diagnosing most tumor cases was only feasible after they had spread or increased in size. However, with current capabilities, particularly for deep-seated tumors accessible without exploratory surgery, precise diagnosis and imaging have significantly enhanced surgical success rates.
What are the Symptoms of Brain and Nerve Tumors in Children?
Common symptoms of brain and nerve tumors in children include:
- Continuous headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
- Paralysis in the legs, arms, or both.
- Impaired hearing and smell.
- Disturbances and vision impairment.
- Respiratory and pulse irregularities, especially if the tumor compresses the brainstem.
- Lack of sensation in the skin, affecting the ability to discern temperature, touch, or pressure, etc.
- Difficulty in expression or slow comprehension.
How are Pediatric Brain and Nerve Disorders Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of pediatric brain and nerve disorders depends on the nature of the condition, whether it's a tumor, peripheral nerve injury, spinal cord injury, vascular issues, etc. Diagnostic methods include:
- Clinical examination: Initial diagnosis relies on clinical examination, where the pediatric neurosurgeon assesses symptoms and conducts tests to determine the nature of the disorder.
- Neurological function tests: These tests identify electrical activities in the body that affect motor and sensory functions, utilizing sensory tests, electrodiagnostic equipment, sweat testing devices, and muscle reaction tests.
- Blood tests: Blood tests ordered by the neurosurgeon aim to identify antibodies, viruses, glucose levels, cholesterol, hormones, etc.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scan: CT scans provide detailed information about the location of the disease, whether it's a tumor or injury due to trauma or inflammation.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound serves as an ideal method to identify many diseases associated with pediatric neurosurgery.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Most neurosurgeons heavily rely on MRI for diagnosis. It easily detects tumors and identifies spinal cord and spinal column issues, among others, aiding in determining appropriate treatment methods.
- Tissue biopsy: In cases of tumors, obtaining a tissue sample for analysis helps identify the tumor type, guiding exploratory procedures and treatment plans.
