Anatomy of the Brain Nothing in the world can compare with the human brain. This mysterious three-pound organ controls all necessary functions of the body, receives and interprets information from the outside world, and embodies the essence of the mind and soul. Intelligence, creativity, emotion, and memories are a few of the many things governed by the brain.
Traumatic brain injury Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is sudden damage to the brain caused by a blow or jolt to the head. Common causes include car or motorcycle crashes, falls, sports injuries, and assaults. Injuries can range from mild concussions to severe permanent brain damage. The consequences of a brain injury can affect all aspects of a person's life, including physical and mental abilities as well as emotions and personality. While treatment for mild TBI may include rest and medication, severe TBI may require intensive care and life-saving emergency surgery.
Brain Tumors
Acoustic neuroma An acoustic neuroma is a tumor that grows from the nerves responsible for balance and hearing. More accurately called vestibular schwannoma, these tumors grow from the sheath covering the vestibulocochlear nerve. Acoustic neuromas are benign (not cancerous) and usually grow slowly. Over time the tumor can cause gradual hearing loss, ringing in the ear, and dizziness. Because of their slow growth, not all acoustic neuromas need to be treated. Treatment options include observation, surgery, and radiation.
Acoustic neuroma surgery: suboccipital craniotomy A suboccipital craniotomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove an acoustic neuroma growing from the nerve responsible for balance and hearing (vestibulocochlear). During surgery, a section of the skull is removed behind the ear to access the tumor and nerves. The goals of surgery are: first, the maintenance of facial nerve function; second, the preservation of socially useful hearing in the affected ear; and third, tumor removal.
Brain tumors: an introduction A tumor is abnormal tissue that grows by uncontrolled cell division. Normal cells grow in a controlled manner as new cells replace old or damaged ones. For reasons not fully understood, tumor cells reproduce uncontrollably. Brain tumors are named after the cell type from which they grow. They may be primary (starting in the brain) or secondary (spreading to the brain from another area). Treatment options vary depending on the tumor type, size and location; whether the tumor has spread; and the age and medical health of the person.
Craniotomy Craniotomy is a cut that opens the cranium. During this surgical procedure, a section of the skull, called a bone flap, is removed to access the brain underneath. The bone flap is usually replaced after the procedure with tiny plates and screws.
Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery Transsphenoidal surgery is performed to remove tumors from the pituitary gland, sellar region, and sphenoid sinus of the skull. The surgery is performed through the nose with a microscope or more commonly with an endoscope. Pituitary tumors cause a variety of hormone problems and can grow to large size, compressing important nerves and arteries at the base of the brain. When this occurs, surgery is needed to remove the tumor, especially when vision is at risk. Tumor removal often reverses endocrine problems and restores normal hormone balance.
Glioma brain tumors (astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, glioblastoma) A glioma is a type of brain tumor that grows from glial cells. Glial cells support nerve cells with energy and nutrients and help maintain the blood-brain barrier. Glioma is an umbrella term used to describe the different types of gliomas: astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and glioblastoma.
Meningioma brain tumors A meningioma is a type of tumor that grows from the protective membranes, called meninges, which surround the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign (not cancerous) and slow growing; however, some can be malignant. Symptoms typically appear gradually and vary depending on the location and brain area affected. Because these are slow growing tumors, not all meningiomas need to be treated immediately.
Metastatic brain tumors Metastatic brain tumors begin as cancer in another part of the body and spread to the brain via blood or nearby tissue. There can be one (metastasis) or multiple (metastases) tumors.
Pituitary tumors Pituitary tumors grow from the pituitary gland, the master gland of the body, located deep in the skull. These tumors can affect the whole body by interfering with normal hormone production. As the tumor grows, it can cause a variety of symptoms including compression of nearby nerves, resulting in vision problems. There are various kinds of pituitary tumors: adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, and Rathke's cleft cysts. Most are benign (not cancerous) and are often curable. Treatment options aim to remove the tumor or control its growth and restore normal hormone function.
Radiosurgery and radiotherapy of the head Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to treat tumors and other diseases of the body. Radiation works by damaging the DNA inside cells and making them unable to divide and reproduce. The benefits of radiation are not immediate but occur over time. Aggressive tumors, whose cells divide rapidly, typically respond more quickly to radiation. Over time, the abnormal cells die and the tumor may shrink. Normal cells can also be damaged by radiation, but they can repair themselves more effectively than abnormal cells. The goal of radiation treatment is to maximize the dose to abnormal cells and minimize the exposure to normal cells.
Cerebrovascular
Aneurysm clipping Clipping is a surgical procedure performed to treat a balloon-like bulge or weakening of an artery wall known as an aneurysm. As an aneurysm grows it becomes thinner and weaker. It can become so thin that it leaks or ruptures, releasing blood into the spaces around the brain - called a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). A neurosurgeon places a tiny clip across the neck of the aneurysm to stop or prevent an aneurysm from bleeding.
Aneurysm coiling Coiling is a minimally invasive endovascular procedure performed to treat an aneurysm - a balloon-like bulge or weakening of an artery wall. As an aneurysm grows, it thins and weakens. It can become so thin that it leaks or ruptures, releasing blood into the space around the brain. This bleeding is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and is life threatening. During coiling, tiny coils are packed into the aneurysm to promote blood clotting and close off the aneurysm.
Aneurysm ruptured An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge or weakening of an artery wall. As an aneurysm enlarges it puts pressure on surrounding structures, causing headache or vision problems, and may eventually rupture. A ruptured aneurysm releases blood into the spaces around the brain, called a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - a life-threatening type of stroke. Treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding and repairing the aneurysm with surgical clipping, coiling, or bypass.
Aneurysm unruptured An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge or weakening of an artery wall. As an aneurysm enlarges it puts pressure on surrounding structures, causing headache or vision problems, and may eventually rupture. A ruptured aneurysm releases blood into the spaces around the brain, called a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - a life-threatening type of stroke. Treatment options for aneurysms include observation, surgical clipping, coiling, and bypass.
Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels in the brain or spine. Some AVMs have no specific symptoms and little or no risk to a one's life or health, while others cause severe and devastating effects when they bleed. Treatment options range from conservative watching to aggressive surgery, depending on the type, symptoms, and location of the AVM.
Carotid stenosis (carotid artery disease) Carotid stenosis is a narrowing of the carotid arteries, the two major arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain. Also called carotid artery disease, carotid stenosis is caused by a buildup of plaque inside the artery wall that reduces blood flow to the brain. The process of plaque buildup is called atherosclerosis.
Cerebral bypass surgery A cerebral bypass is a surgical procedure performed to restore, or "revascularize," blood flow to the brain. A cerebral bypass is the brain's equivalent of a coronary bypass in the heart. The surgery involves connecting a blood vessel from outside the brain to a vessel inside the brain to reroute blood flow around an artery that is narrowed, blocked, or damaged. The main goal of bypass surgery is to restore blood supply to the brain and prevent strokes.
Craniotomy Craniotomy is a cut that opens the cranium. During this surgical procedure, a section of the skull, called a bone flap, is removed to access the brain underneath. The bone flap is usually replaced after the procedure with tiny plates and screws.
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a type of stroke caused by bleeding within the brain tissue itself - a very life-threatening situation. A stroke occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen due to an interruption of its blood supply. ICH is most commonly caused by hypertension, arteriovenous malformations, or head trauma. Treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding, removing the blood clot (hematoma), and relieving the pressure on the brain.
Intracranial artery stenosis Intracranial stenosis is a narrowing of an artery inside the brain that can lead to stroke. Stenosis is caused by a buildup of plaque inside the artery wall that reduces blood flow to the brain. The process of plaque buildup is called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis that is severe enough to cause symptoms carries a high risk of stroke and can lead to brain damage and death. Treatments aim to reduce the risk of stroke by controlling or removing plaque buildup and by preventing blood clots.
Moyamoya disease Moyamoya disease is a disorder caused by blocked arteries at the base of the brain. The name "moyamoya" means "puff of smoke" in Japanese and describes the appearance of the tangle of tiny vessels that form to compensate for the blockage. As the normal blood vessels narrow and become blocked, a person may suffer a stroke - a life-threatening situation. No medication can stop or reverse the progression of moyamoya disease. Treatment focuses on reducing the risk of stroke and restoring blood flow to the brain.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious, life-threatening type of stroke caused by bleeding into the space surrounding the brain. A stroke occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen because of an interruption of its blood supply. SAH can be caused by a ruptured aneurysm. One-third of patients who suffer an SAH will survive with good recovery; one-third will survive with a disability; and one-third will die. Treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding, restoring normal blood flow, relieving the pressure on the brain, and preventing vasospasm.
Stroke Think of a stroke as a "brain attack" - it is an emergency! Because a stroke can damage brain tissue, every minute counts. When symptoms appear call 911 immediately. A stroke occurs when the brain is deprived of the oxygen it needs due to an interruption of its blood supply. Without oxygen brain cells die. The oxygen deprived area of brain tissue is called an infarct. Depending on what area of the brain has been affected, a stroke can cause problems with speech, behavior, thought patterns and memory, and may result in permanent brain damage, disability or death.
Chiari Malformation
Chiari I malformation Chiari I malformation is a condition in which the lower part of the brain, called the cerebellar tonsil, herniates down through the skull and into the spinal canal. The herniated tissue presses against the brainstem and blocks the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Depending on the extent of herniation, these malformations cause a variety of symptoms that range from mild to severe.
Chiari decompression surgery Chiari decompression is a surgical procedure performed to treat a Chiari malformation and syringomyelia. Bone at the back of the skull and spine is removed to widen the foramen magnum. The dura overlying the tonsils is opened and a patch is sewn to expand the space, similar to letting out the waistband on a pair of pants. The goals of surgery are to control the progression of symptoms, relieve compression of the brainstem and spinal cord, and restore the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Facial pain
Hemifacial spasm Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is an involuntary twitching or contraction of the facial muscles on one side of the face. Medication, surgery, and Botox injections are treatment options to stop the spasms and relieve the discomfort. Each treatment offers benefits, but each has limitations. You and your doctor should determine which treatment is best.
Microvascular decompression Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a surgical procedure that relieves abnormal compression of a cranial nerve. It is performed to treat trigeminal neuralgia, vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia, and hemifacial spasm. These conditions are often caused by an artery or vein compressing the nerve root as it leaves the brainstem. When compressed, normal nerve impulses can recruit nearby nerve fibers and send faulty messages. Medications often provide relief to patients with these conditions, but when medications become ineffective or cause serious side effects, one treatment option is MVD.
Percutaneous stereotactic radiofrequency rhizotomy Percutaneous stereotactic radiofrequency rhizotomy (PSR) is a minimally invasive procedure performed to relieve pain caused by: trigeminal neuralgia, glossopharyngeal neuralgia and cluster headaches. Medications often provide pain relief to patients with these conditions, but when medications become ineffective in pain control or cause serious side effects, one treatment option is PSR.
Trigeminal neuralgia Trigeminal neuralgia is an inflammation of the trigeminal nerve causing extreme pain and muscle spasms in the face. Attacks of intense, electric shock-like facial pain can occur without warning or be triggered by touching specific areas of the face. Although the exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not fully understood, a blood vessel is often found compressing the nerve. Several treatments can relieve the pain. Each treatment offers benefits, but each has limitations. You and your doctor should determine which treatment is best for you.
Seizures
Epilepsy A seizure (often called a fit, spell, convulsion, or attack) is a visible sign of a problem in the electrical system that controls your brain. A single seizure can have many causes. Those who continue to have unproked seizures may have a chronic disorder called epilepsy. The term "seizure disorder" is often used as another way to describe epilepsy.
Epilepsy surgery Epilepsy surgery is performed to treat seizures that are uncontrolled with medication. About 30% of people with epilepsy are not controlled with medication and are considered medically intractable. "Medically intractable seizures" are defined as persistent seizures despite trials of three or more appropriate antiepileptic drugs [1], alone or in combination. People with medically intractable seizures may be candidates for surgical treatment to achieve better seizure control.
Seizures A seizure (also called a fit, spell, convulsion, or attack) is the visible sign of a problem in the electrical system that controls your brain. A single seizure can have many causes, such as a high fever, lack of oxygen, poisoning, trauma, a tumor, infection, or after brain surgery. Most seizures are controlled with medication. If your seizures occur repeatedly, then you may have the chronic disorder called epilepsy.
Parkinsons
Parkinson's disease Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive disorder that affects nerve cells deep in the brain responsible for planning and controlling body movement. Dopamine is a chemical used in body movement. When the dopamine-producing nerve cells die, symptoms such as tremor, slowness, stiffness, and balance problems begin to occur. The cause of Parkinson's is largely unknown and the disease cannot be cured at this time. Treatments focus on reducing symptoms to enable a more active lifestyle.
Coping with Parkinson's disease Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a degenerative, progressive neurologic disorder that affects the way you move. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms to enable a normal, active lifestyle. While medication is necessary, you can do your part to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and staying physically active in order to contribute to your overall health and well-being.
Deep Brain Stimulation (for Parkinson's, essential tremor, dystonia) Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure to implant a pacemaker-like device that sends electrical signals to brain areas responsible for body movement. Electrodes are placed deep in the brain and are connected to a stimulator/battery device. Similar to a heart pacemaker, a neurostimulator uses electric pulses to help regulate brain activity. DBS can help reduce the symptoms of tremor, slowness of movement, stiffness, and walking problems caused by movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or essential tremor.
