- Treatments
- Hemorrhagic Stroke
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Evacuation of Intracerebral Haemorrhage (BrainPath)
An intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is a type of stroke caused by bleeding directly into the brain tissue. This can lead to increased pressure on the brain, causing symptoms like severe headaches, confusion, weakness, or loss of consciousness. Common causes include high blood pressure, trauma, or medical conditions that weaken blood vessels.
Why Is BrainPath Surgery Performed?
- Remove the Hematoma: Safely evacuate the blood clot to reduce pressure on the brain
- Preserve Brain Function: Minimize trauma to healthy brain tissue during surgery
- Improve Outcomes: Provide faster recovery and reduce complications compared to traditional open surgery
What Is BrainPath Surgery?
BrainPath is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to evacuate (remove) blood clots from the brain caused by intracerebral haemorrhage. It involves using a specialized device to create a safe pathway to the hematoma, minimizing damage to surrounding brain tissue.
How Does BrainPath Surgery Work?
The BrainPath system uses a tubular retractor inserted through a small incision in the skull. This retractor creates a narrow, protective channel to the hematoma, allowing the surgeon to remove the blood clot without disrupting surrounding brain tissue.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Preparation
- The patient is placed under general anaesthesia for a pain-free and safe procedure.
- Imaging studies, such as CT or MRI scans, are used to locate the hematoma and plan the surgical pathway.
Creating the Access Path
- A small incision is made in the scalp, and a tiny hole (burr hole) is drilled into the skull.
- The BrainPath device is inserted through the burr hole to create a channel to the hematoma.
Evacuating the Hematoma
- Specialized tools are used through the BrainPath channel to carefully remove the blood clot.
- The surrounding brain tissue is gently displaced but not damaged.
Closure
- The BrainPath device is removed, the burr hole is sealed, and the incision is closed with sutures or staples.
Benefits of BrainPath Surgery
- Minimally Invasive: Requires only a small incision, reducing recovery time and risks
- Preserves Healthy Tissue: Protects surrounding brain tissue from damage
- Faster Recovery: Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays and quicker healing
- Reduced Complications: Lower risk of infection, bleeding, and neurological deficits compared to traditional craniotomy
Risks and Complications
- Bleeding: There is a small chance of recurrent bleeding at the site of the haemorrhage
- Infection: A rare but possible risk associated with any surgical procedure
- Incomplete Hematoma Removal: In some cases, not all the blood clots can be removed
- Neurological Symptoms: Temporary or permanent changes in movement, speech, or sensation may occur, depending on the hematoma’s location
Who Is a Candidate for BrainPath Surgery?
- Have large or life-threatening hematomas causing significant brain pressure or neurological symptoms
- Are otherwise healthy enough to undergo surgery
- Would benefit from a minimally invasive approach, particularly for deep-seated haemorrhages
Recovery and Aftercare
- Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery.
- Recovery Period: Full recovery may take several weeks to months, depending on the patient’s overall health and the location of the hematoma.
- Rehabilitation: Physical, occupational, or speech therapy may be needed to regain lost functions.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular imaging studies, such as CT or MRI scans, monitor for complications or recurrence of bleeding.
How It Differs from Traditional Surgery
- Minimally Invasive vs. Craniotomy: BrainPath uses a small incision and retractor system, while craniotomy involves opening a larger portion of the skull.
- Tissue Preservation: BrainPath minimizes damage to surrounding tissue, whereas traditional surgery may disrupt healthy areas.
- Faster Recovery: BrainPath patients typically heal quicker, and experience fewer complications compared to those undergoing open surgery.
- Lifestyle Changes: Patients are encouraged to control risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking to support recovery.
Outcomes & Conclusion
BrainPath surgery has shown excellent outcomes for appropriate candidates. Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms, reduced pressure on the brain, and faster recovery compared to traditional approaches. Long-term success depends on the extent of the initial haemorrhage and the patient’s overall condition.
Minimally invasive BrainPath surgery is an advanced and effective option for evacuating intracerebral haemorrhages. By reducing trauma to surrounding brain tissue and providing faster recovery, this technique offers significant advantages over traditional surgery. With proper care and follow-up, patients can achieve improved outcomes and a better quality of life.
Request an appointment or make an enquiry
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mount Elizabeth Orchard
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
