Treatment for Skull Base Tumors

Skull base tumors can grow deep into the skull, presenting significant challenges for removal due to their proximity to critical nerves and blood vessels. These tumors can develop in various ways and at different speeds, each with its own set of challenges and risks. Common types of skull base tumors include:

• Olfactory neuroblastoma (esthesioneuroblastoma)
• Paranasal sinus cancer
• Pituitary adenomas
• Craniopharyngioma
• Rathke’s cleft cyst
• Acoustic neuroma
• Chondroma
• Chondrosarcoma
• Chordoma
• Epidermoid tumor
• Meningioma
• Encephaloceles
• Hemangiopericytomas
• Skull base osteomas

Diagnosis of these tumors typically involves advanced CT and MRI imaging, bone scans, and PET scans. These tests help in typing and evaluating the tumor to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the tumor type and its location. Dr. Sina Rajamand and his team at Saint Mary’s Brain and Spine Surgery offer expert treatment for skull base tumors in the Reno and Northern Nevada area.

Reno Cranial Base Surgery

In most cases, approximately 90%, skull base tumors can be treated using endoscopic nasal surgery. Dr. Sina Rajamand accesses the tumor through the patient’s nose and nasal cavity, avoiding visible incisions. For other cases, Dr. Rajamand employs minimally-invasive neurosurgical techniques to access and remove skull base tumors. Additional approaches include retro-sigmoid craniotomy (keyhole brain surgery) and supra-orbital “eyebrow” craniotomy, which involve small incisions behind the ear or in the eyebrow to access the skull and tumor.

Dr. Rajamand is a highly-skilled and experienced neurosurgeon, working with an exceptionally talented team at Saint Mary’s Brain and Spine Surgery. They provide expert diagnosis and treatment for various skull base tumors in the Reno and Northern Nevada area. Contact Dr. Rajamand today to schedule an exam and consultation for cranial base surgery to remove skull base tumors.