Minimally invasive procedures offer new hope for patients, including in neurosurgery. As technology advances in healthcare, more and more operations can be performed with minimally invasive procedures, tailored to the patient's diagnosis.
Minimally Invasive Procedures for Stroke Treatment
In the case of stroke, which is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, this disease occurs due to impaired blood flow to the brain, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
Stroke treatment can be done by:
1. Endovascular techniques
This is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a small catheter through a blood vessel in the groin or wrist, then navigates it to the brain with the help of medical imaging.
This technique is used to:
- Removing a blood clot (mechanical thrombectomy) in ischemic stroke
- Placing coils and stents in cases of aneurysms at risk of rupture
2. Microscope-assisted and endoscope-assisted procedures
Another minimally invasive procedure is surgery for strokes caused by blood vessel rupture or hemorrhagic strokes using microscope-assisted or endoscope-assisted techniques. This allows for smaller surgical incisions, reducing the risk of complications and speeding up the patient's recovery.
Microscope-assisted and endoscope-assisted procedures can also be used on patients with other disorders such as brain tumors, spinal cord disorders, and congenital disorders in children.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery
The main advantages of minimally invasive neurosurgery include:
- Less tissue trauma
Small incisions create minimal tissue damage, so patients experience less post-operative pain. - Faster recovery
Patients can recover more quickly and return to their activities more quickly. - Lower risk of complications
This procedure reduces the risk of infection and bleeding compared to conventional surgery. - Shorter intensive care
Patients usually do not require long-term intensive care, so they can quickly enter the rehabilitation phase. - Supported by advanced technology
With advances in imaging technology and surgical instruments, these procedures have become increasingly accurate and efficient in treating complex neurological conditions.
Challenges of Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery
Despite its many advantages, minimally invasive neurosurgery still has several challenges, including:
- Not all patients are suitable
The choice of action must be adjusted to the patient's condition through a comprehensive (holistic) examination. - The importance of a rapid and accurate diagnosis
A proper diagnosis determines the best treatment method for each patient. - Requires a doctor with special skills
This procedure can only be performed by medical personnel who have certain competencies and experience. - Limited facilities
It requires a hospital with sophisticated equipment, so not all health centers are able to provide this service.
Early Detection and Appropriate Treatment for Recovery
With increasing research and innovation in minimally invasive neurosurgery, it is hoped that more patients requiring neurosurgical procedures will benefit from this technology. Public education regarding the importance of seeking prompt medical treatment must also be continuously promoted.
With early detection and appropriate treatment, patients' chances of recovery without disability are significantly increased. Minimally invasive neurosurgery has paved the way for safer and more effective treatment methods, offering new hope to millions of patients worldwide battling the disease.
This article was written by Dr. Muhammad Fahriza, Sp.BS (Neurosurgeon Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).