Surgical Management of a Colloid Cyst of third ventricle

Surgical Management of a Colloid Cyst of third ventricle

A 20-year-old girl, an art student, presented with two episodes of transient loss of consciousness lasting 20–30 minutes, accompanied by neck pain radiating to the left side. Clinical evaluation, followed by MRI, revealed a third ventricular colloid cyst, causing obstruction at the foramen of Monro and resulting in intermittent symptoms of raised intracranial pressure.

The patient underwent neuro-navigation-guided craniotomy and successful excision of the colloid cyst. Intraoperative and postoperative management were uneventful. The patient was extubated immediately following the procedure. A postoperative CT scan confirmed complete excision of the cyst, with no residual tumor visible.

She was monitored in the ICU for one day, where she demonstrated remarkable recovery. Impressively, she resumed her artistic pursuits on the first postoperative day, highlighting her swift neurological recovery. Currently, she is stable and recovering well in the ward.

We extend our gratitude to the entire neurosurgery team and the operating theater staff for their seamless coordination and dedication to achieving an excellent outcome for the patient.

This case underscores the importance of timely diagnosis, precise surgical planning, and multidisciplinary teamwork in the successful management of colloid cysts.

Histopathology- Nimhans 

Colloid cyst 

Regarding Third ventricular colloid cysts , these are rare 1 to 3 % whole intracranial tumours but potentially life-threatening intracranial lesions, often presenting a significant surgical challenge due to their deep midline location and proximity to critical neurovascular structures. These cysts can cause acute hydrocephalus and elevated intracranial pressure through obstruction of the foramen of Monro, leading to symptoms such as severe headaches, intermittent loss of consciousness, or, in rare cases, sudden death. Surgical management, either through neuro-navigation-guided craniotomy or endoscopic resection, demands meticulous planning and precise execution to minimize complications. Advances in neuro-navigation and microsurgical techniques have significantly enhanced the safety and efficacy of these procedures, making early diagnosis and prompt intervention essential in preventing catastrophic events.

Dr Ganesh Veerabhadraiah 
HOD and Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon
Kauvery hospital 
Electronic City
Bengaluru 

Ph no 7249669911

#ColloidCyst #ThirdVentricularTumours #BrainTumours #IntraventricularTumours #EndoscopicTumourRemoval #Craniotomy

Neurosurgeon and Neurologist : Who to Consult for Brain or Spine Problems in 2025

When it comes to brain and spine problems, most patients ask the same question —
“Should I consult a neurologist or a neurosurgeon?”

While both specialists treat disorders of the nervous system, their roles are very different. Understanding this distinction can help you reach the right expert faster — improving diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

At Neurowellness Bangalore, patients often come to us unsure whom to approach first. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision.

What Does a Neurologist Do?

A neurologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscleswithout performing surgery.

They use advanced imaging, electrophysiological studies, and medications to treat conditions like:

ㆍHeadaches and migraines
ㆍStroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
Epilepsy and seizures
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Peripheral neuropathies

Neurologists focus on medical management, ensuring early detection and long-term control of neurological disorders.

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Consultant – Neurosurgeon, Neurointerventional Surgery, Spine Surgeon (Neuro)
23+ Years Experience Overall (17+ years as Neuro Specialist)

Available for Consultation: Jayanagar 9th Block & Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City 

What Does a Neurosurgeon Do?

A neurosurgeon is a surgical specialist who diagnoses and operates on conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nerves when non-surgical treatments fail.

Common procedures performed include:

ㆍBrain tumor removal
ㆍSpine decompression and fusion surgeries
Endoscopic brain surgeries
Shunt placements for hydrocephalus
Aneurysm and vascular repairs

Modern neurosurgery has evolved to include minimally invasive, robotic, and image-guided techniques that ensure faster recovery and precision outcomes.

Key Differences Between Neurologist and Neurosurgeon

Condition / SymptomNeurologistNeurosurgeon
Headaches, dizziness, seizures✅ Diagnoses and treats medically❌ Not required
Brain tumors, hemorrhage🔄 Refers to neurosurgeon for surgery✅ Performs surgery
Chronic back/neck pain✅ Provides medication, physiotherapy✅ Performs spine surgery if needed
Stroke✅ Manages recovery & medication🩺 Handles surgical complications (if any)
Nerve compression / slipped disc🩺 Diagnoses, recommends MRI✅ Performs endoscopic or open surgery

Expert Insight – Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah, Senior Neurosurgeon
“Neurologists and neurosurgeons work as a team. While neurologists focus on diagnosis and medical management, neurosurgeons intervene surgically when structure or compression needs correction. A balanced approach ensures the best patient outcomes.”

When to see a neurosurgeon in Bangalore?

Neurosurgeons, like neurologists, deal with a wide range of ailments; because neurosurgeons can perform surgery on any region of the entire nervous system and associated with body parts as well, people who visit them are frequently those who have been advised to do so by neurologists. A neurosurgeon’s main role, as previously stated, includes surgical procedures. Here are some of the scenarios in which they might intervene:

  • Brain injuries.
    • Craniotomy and Brain tumor removal.
    • Aneurysm Clipping or Coiling
    • Spinal decompression and spinal fusion.
    • Craniotomy and removal of a blood clot.
    • Brain bypass

Brain Bypass Surgery In Bangalore 

As advanced neurosurgery in Bangalore is one of the most difficult fields of medicine, it may sometimes necessitate the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team of experts, including plastic surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, interventional radiologists, and others.

Collaboration Between Neurologists and Neurosurgeons

Often, neurologists and neurosurgeons work together for comprehensive patient care. For example, a neurologist may diagnose a condition and refer the patient to a neurosurgeon for surgery. Post-surgery, the neurologist continues medical management. If you’re seeking a collaborative approach, consider visiting the best neurology and neurosurgery hospitals in Bangalore.

Need Expert Advice?

🩺 Confused About Whom to Consult — Neurologist or Neurosurgeon?

Not every brain or spine condition needs surgery. At Neurowellness Bangalore, our specialists carefully diagnose and recommend the best path forward.

📞 Book a Consultation with Dr. Ganesh VeerabhadraiahSenior Neurosurgeon, Neurowellness India.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon?

A neurologist treats brain and nerve disorders medically, while a neurosurgeon performs surgeries to correct structural issues.

2. When should I see a neurologist first?

If you have headaches, numbness, or seizures — a neurologist can diagnose and treat your condition without surgery.

3. When is surgery necessary for neurological disorders?

Surgery is needed for tumors, trauma, or spinal compression when conservative treatments fail.

4. Can neurologists and neurosurgeons work together?

Yes, they often collaborate for diagnosis, surgical planning, and post-operative recovery.

5. How can I book a consultation?

You can schedule an appointment directly through Neurowellness Bangalore or call for a neuro evaluation.

About Author

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah, leading neurosurgeon and neurologist in Bangalore, has over 20 years of expertise in managing back pain, migraines, headaches, neuro disorders, and spine problems. His clinical excellence and patient-first approach make him one of the most trusted neuro doctors in Bangalore.

At Neurowellness Brain & Spine Clinic in Jayanagar and Kavery Hospital Electronic City, Dr. Ganesh provides comprehensive treatments ranging from minimally invasive spine surgery to advanced neurological care. As a respected back pain specialist and migraine doctor, he continues to deliver reliable outcomes for patients.

👉 Connect with Dr. Ganesh on LinkedIn

Neuro Endovascular Coiling

In this blog, we are throwing some lights on “Neuro Endovascular Coiling”. You will get to know all those important details of Neuro Endovascular coiling that will help you take better decisions about discussing the risks and benefits of aneurysm coiling procedures with a Neurosurgeon in Bangalore.

What is Aneurysm?

An aneurysm in the brain is a weak area in an artery in the brain that bulges out and fills with blood. In some of the cases, it balloons out of the thinned vessel wall can lead to dangerous complications if ruptures.

Once brain aneurysm is diagnosed by neuroimaging DSA or CT angiogram, after discussing benefits and risks of coiling of aneurysm coiling procedures undertaken. One should discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor.

Usually coiling procedure is suitable for aneurysms in posterior circulation that is vessels supplying the brain stem and cerebellum, narrow neck of aneurysm. You should always discuss with neurosurgeons about the coiling and other approaches, benefits and risks.

Endovascular coiling is usually carried out under general anaesthesia in a cath lab.

It is usually done from an artery in the groin called the femoral artery. Other arteries can be radial or brachial arteries in hand. Here catheters and micro guide wires are used to reach the area of the aneurysm.

Platinum coils are used to fill the aneurysm and seal that prevent the rupture. Sometimes additionally balloons or stents are used to facilitate the filling of platinum coils.

How you should be prepared for an endovascular coiling?

  • In order to do the procedure, you will be asked to read the consent form carefully and sign it as well
  • Share all your information regarding your reactions or  allergies to alternative dyes or iodine
  • Do follow the advisories given by the doctor before surgery
  • The news regarding pregnancy shall be shared
  • Blood tests are necessary so as to see how much time does it take to clotting of blood
  • Tell the doctor about the medicines and supplementary you have been taking

Endovascular Coiling Procedure:

A coiling procedure will require you to stay in the hospital. Procedures may differ depending on your situation and the procedures of your Neurosurgeon or practitioner.

  1. Any clothing, jewellery, hairpins, dentures or anything that could interfere with the treatment will be asked to remove but generally, a hospital gown will be provided to you
  2. Before the treatment begins, you will be given time to empty your bladder
  3. On the X-ray table, you will be positioned on your back
  4. In your hand or arm, an IV (intravenous) line will be started
  5. An electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor will be attached to you, which will record your heart’s electrical activity
  6. During the process, you will have your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate and nervous system indication checked
  7. To drain your bladder, a catheter may be inserted
  8. Your pulses may be checked below the groyne area where the catheter will be put by the radiologist or neurosurgeon
  9.  A guide will be used to insert a catheter into the artery in your groyne
  10.  Fluoroscopy will be used to guide the catheter through the blood artery into the brain
  11.  This is a sort of X-ray that resembles an X-ray movie
  12.  Contrast dye will be given after the catheter reaches the afflicted artery in the brain, allowing the aneurysm and surrounding blood vessels to be seen on X-ray
  13.  The aneurysm will be measured and its shape and other characteristics will be recorded by the provider
  14.  The initial catheter will be replaced with a smaller catheter by the physician
  15.  The provider will insert the coil into the aneurysm once the catheter has reached it
  16.  The coil is removed from the catheter once it has been entirely inserted into the aneurysm
  17.  The doctor will insert as many coils as necessary to seal the aneurysm
  18.  Inside the aneurysm, the coils will form a mesh-like structure
  19.  The catheter will be removed once the aneurysm has sealed. In the end, the dressing will be done

There are certain risks present in this neurosurgical procedure so always consult the Best Neurosurgeon in Bangalore. There have been cases of bleeding in an aneurysm and recanalization. Endovascular coiling may not be a complete success in all the patients.

When the procedure is going on, complications such as aneurysm rupture or stroke may arise. Aneurysms can be prevented from rupturing by preventing blood flow into them.

Other risks involved are:

  • Bleeding
  • Blood clot
  • Infection
  • Rupture of aneurysm
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Paralysis on half of the body
  • Transient ischemic attack

Endovascular coiling is a minimally invasive surgery, there no craniotomy or cutting of bone, no opening of the brain, no retraction of brain or handling of blood vessels, get discharged faster and going back to normal life is fast. At NeuroWellness you will get the best and cost-effective treatment for any brain or spine related problem from the Best Neurosurgeon in Bangalore.

Neuro endovascular coiling offers a safe, less invasive solution to treat brain aneurysms. Timely diagnosis and expert care can save lives.”
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

FAQs on Neuro Endovascular Coiling

  • Q1: What is neuro endovascular coiling?
    It is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat brain aneurysms by placing coils inside the aneurysm to block blood flow.

  • Q2: Is coiling better than open surgery for aneurysms?
    Yes, for many patients, coiling is safer with quicker recovery, but eligibility depends on aneurysm type and location.

  • Q3: How long does it take to recover from coiling?
    Most patients recover within 1–2 weeks. Some may need longer observation depending on individual health.

  • Q4: Is neuro coiling available in Bangalore?
    Yes, advanced neuro centers like NeuroWellness offer expert coiling procedures by trained neuro-interventionists.

 

How Smoking Spine Damages Your Risks & Recovery in Bangalore

By smoking Cigarette, pharmacologically active alkaloid Nicotine is inhaled and that deeply penetrates the lungs and then absorbed in the bloodstream.

disc degeneration

Nicotine is directly responsible for Intervertebral disc degeneration by damage of annulus & nucleus pulposus. By Smoking Toxins directly damage cells.

Toxins released by smoking increase pain sensitivity by altering the pathway in the central nervous system (CNS). The smokers may require an increase in the dose of pain killers (Analgesics )to reduce the pain compare to non-smokers.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation US – smokers have a high incidence of osteoporosis and low bone density thereby increasing the risk of fracture.

Vertebral / Spine fractures are common in smokers.

Spine fracture

Spine fracture

Smoking reduces the bone mineral density, directly proportional to the severity of the smoking and also occurs with passive smoking.

Smoking reduces the oxygen supply and healing process of the bone, thereby delayed healing of the spine is expected following spine fracture or spine surgery.

Smoking affects the blood vessels, causes vasoconstriction and reduces oxygen and nutrients spinal tissue.

Continuous coughing as a result of smoking puts undue pressure over the spine and Increases the chances of disc herniation, radicular pain, and claudication pain. Subsequently, also worsen the neurological deficits.

Smoking EffectImpact on Spine Health
Reduced blood flowSlows healing after injuries & surgeries
Weak bone densityHigher risk of fractures & osteoporosis
Disc degenerationFaster wear & tear leading to chronic back pain
Impaired recoveryLonger recovery from spine surgeries

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Consultant – Neurosurgeon, Neurointerventional Surgery, Spine Surgeon (Neuro)
23+ Years Experience Overall (17+ years as Neuro Specialist)

Available for Consultation: Jayanagar 9th Block & Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City 

QUIT SMOKING FOR A HEALTHY SPINE

Our expert Spine Surgeons in Bangalore at Neurowellness a Bangalore Spine Specialist Clinic provide consultation and treatment to all problems related to spine and brain.

Conculsion

Smoking doesn’t just harm your lungs and heart it silently damages your spine, weakens bones, and slows down recovery from injuries and surgeries. The good news is that quitting smoking and seeking timely medical care can significantly improve spine health and prevent long-term complications.

At Neurowellness Brain & Spine Clinic in Bangalore, our team of expert neurosurgeons and spine specialists provide comprehensive care to help patients manage smoking-related spine issues, from early diagnosis to advanced treatment.

Don’t wait until back pain becomes a permanent problem.

FAQs

1. How does smoking affect spine health?

Smoking reduces blood flow, weakens bones, and speeds up disc degeneration, leading to chronic back pain.

2. Can quitting smoking improve back pain?

Yes. Quitting restores blood circulation, strengthens bones, and helps reduce pain and spine complications.

3. Does smoking slow recovery after spine surgery?

Yes. Smokers heal slower and have higher chances of post-surgery complications.

4. Who is at risk of spine damage from smoking?

Long-term smokers, people with osteoporosis, and those with back pain are at higher risk.

5. Where can I get spine recovery help in Bangalore?

Neurowellness Brain & Spine Clinic offers diagnosis and treatment for smoking-related spine problems.

About Author

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah, leading neurosurgeon and neurologist in Bangalore, has over 20 years of expertise in managing back pain, migraines, headaches, neuro disorders, and spine problems. His clinical excellence and patient-first approach make him one of the most trusted neuro doctors in Bangalore.

At Neurowellness Brain & Spine Clinic in Jayanagar and Kavery Hospital Electronic City, Dr. Ganesh provides comprehensive treatments ranging from minimally invasive spine surgery to advanced neurological care. As a respected back pain specialist and migraine doctor, he continues to deliver reliable outcomes for patients.

👉 Connect with Dr. Ganesh on LinkedIn

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