SUCCESSFUL REMOVAL OF A COMPLEX BRAIN TUMOR IN A YOUNG ADULT PATIENT

A three-hour surgery supported by advanced navigation, 12x magnification surgical microscopy, and the CUSA Excel ultrasonic aspirator enabled the complete and safe removal of a brain tumor without any postoperative complications.

Successful Removal Of A Complex Brain Tumor In A Young Adult Patient

Ms. A.N. (29 years old, from Hai Duong) had been suffering from persistent headaches for a long time. Despite taking painkillers, her symptoms did not improve. As the headaches became more intense and were accompanied by episodes of speech difficulty, she sought medical attention at several hospitals. MRI scans revealed a tumor in the left temporal lobe, which is part of the brain’s dominant hemisphere and located near Wernicke’s language area. Although advised to undergo surgery, she initially refused due to the risk of complications such as loss of language comprehension and expression.

While exploring alternative treatment options, Ms. A.N. learned about Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital and decided to travel over 1,500 km to Ho Chi Minh City for further consultation. At the Neurosurgery & Spine Department, an MRI with contrast and 3D reconstruction confirmed a low-grade astrocytoma near the Wernicke’s area.

Ms. A.N. shared: “When I came here for a consultation, I felt completely at ease. Dr. Tuan explained my condition and the surgical plan in great detail, which gave me full confidence to go ahead with the operation”.

Dr. Le Kham Tuan, PhD, Head of the Neurosurgery & Spine Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital, explained

“Astrocytomas are glial cell tumors in the brain. They can cause damage to surrounding healthy tissue, especially when located near critical functional areas like the language center”.

Patients with astrocytomas often present with symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures (e.g., limb twitching), numbness, sensory loss, speech difficulties, double or blurred vision, cognitive impairment, and limb weakness. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, these tumors can grow and lead to permanent neurological deficits or become life-threatening.

To address Ms. A.N.’s condition, Dr. Tuan and the surgical–anesthesia team proceeded with complete tumor excision. The surgery lasted three hours and utilized the Navigation system for precise tumor localization, surgical microscope with 12x magnification, and CUSA Excel ultrasonic aspirator for safe, selective tissue removal. The entire tumor was successfully removed without any complications.

Seven days after surgery, the patient was discharged in stable condition, free from headaches and speech difficulty. Histopathological results confirmed a Grade II astrocytoma. The tissue will undergo genetic testing to determine prognosis and guide future treatment.

Dr. Nguyen Hai Tam, Specialist Level I, a member of the surgical team, added:

“Astrocytomas often have no clear cause, and there are no proven methods of prevention. That’s why anyone experiencing prolonged headaches that don’t respond to medication should seek immediate evaluation from a specialist to prevent serious complications”.

About CUSA Excel – Advanced Surgical Technology

The CUSA Excel ultrasonic surgical aspirator, used at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital, is applied in various procedures such as neurosurgery, urology, gynecology, thoracic and abdominal surgery, and thoracoscopic (minimally invasive chest) procedures.

Key advantages include:

• Selective and precise dissection, minimizing damage to blood vessels and healthy tissue
• Superior hemostasis, with reduced blood loss during surgery
• Lower complication rates postoperatively

The Neurosurgery & Spine Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital is equipped with a team of experienced specialists applying advanced surgical techniques, state-of-the-art medical technologies, and a commitment to improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with brain and spinal conditions.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital accepts both public health insurance and private health insurance.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital

No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: 18006767

info@nih.com.vn

BRC: No. 0312088602, issued on December 14th, 2012 by the Department of Planning and Investment of Ho Chi Minh City. Medical Examination and Treatment License No. 230/BYT-GPHĐ, issued by the Ministry of Health.