Surgical Consultation

Before surgical consultation with your surgeon, it is critical for the patient to have an accurate diagnosis as well as detailed imaging scans that show the size and area of the tumor.

Neurosurgeon Gary Gallia evaluates his patient before
surgery

Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosis is a careful history and neurological examination. 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is usually the definitive diagnostic test. A CT scan with special sequences (bone windows) can provide additional information to aid the physician in diagnosing the tumor.

In some cases, particularly when a close relationship with the blood vessels of the base is suspected, an angiogram (dye study of the vessels) is obtained to complete the work-up.

Based on the diagnosis and location of the tumor, skull base surgery may be indicated. Learn more about preparing for a procedure and what to expect after surgery.