slabbiopsy

Slabbiopsy is a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat certain types of brain tumors, specifically those located in the skull base or the posterior fossa. The procedure involves the removal of a section of the skull, known as a "slab," to access and biopsy the tumor. This approach is often chosen when the tumor is deep-seated and not easily accessible through traditional craniotomy techniques.

The slabbiopsy procedure typically begins with the patient under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the scalp and then carefully removes a section of the skull, exposing the underlying brain tissue. The tumor is then visualized and biopsied using specialized instruments. The biopsy sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumor.

After the biopsy is completed, the surgeon may also perform a partial or total removal of the tumor, depending on the size and location of the tumor and the surgeon's judgment. The skull defect is then repaired using bone grafts or other materials, and the scalp is closed.

Slabbiopsy is a complex procedure that carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and neurological complications. However, it is often necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, especially for tumors that are difficult to access through other means. The procedure is typically performed by neurosurgeons with specialized training in skull base surgery.