Side Effects and Complications of Brain Tumor Surgery

Stanford neurosurgeons are highly experienced and they exploit advanced imaging and other technologies before, during, and after their work in the operating room. But, brain tumor surgery still carries risk of complications. They include:

• reaction to anesthesia
• bleeding in the brain
• a blood clot
• brain swelling
• impaired speech, vision, coordination, or balance
• infection in the brain or at the wound site
• memory problems
• seizures
• stroke
• coma

Your doctor can help you manage the side effects of brain tumor treatment with supportive care that includes medications and other therapies.

In addition to helping with side effects, your treatment team focuses on easing pain and other symptoms so you can feel more comfortable during treatment.

Medications used during palliative care include:

• Corticosteroids: Medications such as dexamethasone decrease the swelling that can pressure the brain, easing pain and reducing other symptoms.
• Anti-seizure medications: Certain medications reduce the chance that a brain tumor will cause seizures, as well as help control them should they occur.
• Antiemetics: These medications help relieve nausea. They are also frequently taken before treatment to prevent the side effect from developing in the first place.