Kolkata: CMRI observes World Brain Tumour Day, top Neurosurgeon highlights advances in surgery

Dr. Amitabha Chanda, Director of Neurosurgery at CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, said, “Brain tumour surgery has changed substantially in the past decade, and the change is most visible in outcomes.”

Elaborating on advancements in surgical techniques and their impact on treatment, he explained, “Imaging technology now allows us to map critical brain functions such as speech, movement, memory, and vision before we enter the operating room. Neuronavigation systems guide the surgical approach in real time. Intraoperative monitoring alerts the team immediately if any critical pathway is at risk. Fluorescence-guided surgery helps distinguish tumour tissue from healthy tissue with a clarity that was not previously available. Awake craniotomy, where the patient remains conscious during specific stages of the procedure, allows us to monitor and preserve function while removing the maximum amount of tumour.”

He added that these innovations have significantly reduced the risk profile of procedures that were previously approached with considerable hesitation or, in some cases, not attempted at all.

The remarks were made during World Brain Tumour Day observance at CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, Kolkata.

Sombrata Roy, Unit Head at CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, told IBNS, “On World Brain Tumour Day, our focus is not only on clinical excellence but also on awareness and empathy.” He emphasised that early consultation and timely diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes and recovery.

The hospital also noted that artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in tumour characterisation, surgical planning, and outcome prediction, helping to refine and personalise treatment strategies.

In addition, minimally invasive techniques, including endoscopic procedures that allow certain tumours to be accessed through the nasal passages without external incisions, have helped reduce recovery time and surgical trauma.

Brain tumour awareness and early warning signs

Experts highlighted that early warning signs such as persistent headaches, unexplained visual disturbances, seizures, memory changes, or progressive weakness should not be ignored. Timely neurological evaluation remains critical in expanding treatment options and improving prognosis.

(Reporting by Supriyo Hazra)