Services

1Spine surgery

Degenerative spine conditions
Spinal trauma
Spinal tumours

2Brain tumour surgery

Craniotomies
Stereotactic procedures
Skull base surgery
Ventricular procedures

3Head injury management

Craniotomies for traumatic brain injuries
Fracture repair
Intracranial pressure monitoring
Management of diffuse axonal injury

4Cerebral infections

Stereotactic aspiration
Craniotomy for abscess drainage
Intraventricular antibiotic administration
Endoscopic abscess drainage

5Less invasive procedures

SERVICES

Cerebral infections

What are cerebral infections?

Early detection of cerebral infections is crucial. These infections may arise from various agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Infections that occur in the brain may also impact other areas of the central nervous system, such as the spinal cord.

Encephalitis is a infectious disorder that results in inflammation (swelling) of the brain. Symptoms of encephalitis include the following:

Seizures
Trouble with speech
Weakness in some areas of the body
Alteration in behavioural patterns and personality

Another infectious disorder, meningitis, is inflammation in the tissues that engulf the spinal cord and brain. Bacterial meningitis is the most fatal form, requiring urgent medical care.

Typical signs of bacterial meningitis include:

Headache
High fever
Tiredness
Stiffness in the neck
Vomiting
Increased sensitivity to light

What are the treatment interventions for cerebral infections?

There are several effective treatment options for cerebral infections. Dr Xulu specialises in different surgical techniques for addressing cerebral infections.

1Stereotactic aspiration

Stereotactic aspiration is a less invasive surgical technique that involves minimal brain tissue disturbance. This highly advanced medical procedure uses a stereotactic frame to guide a small tube or needle through the brain to extract tissue or drain an abscess, all while minimising damage to the surrounding brain tissue.

2Craniotomy for abscess drainage

A craniotomy is advised to drain a brain abscess when it hasn’t responded to aspiration or reoccurs much later on. During the craniotomy procedure, Dr Xulu shaves a part of the patient’s hair and removes a piece of the skull (bone flap) to reach the brain.

3Intraventricular antibiotic administration

Intraventricular antibiotic administration is a form of treatment for infections of the central nervous system, like shunt infections and ventriculitis by administering antibiotics.

4Endoscopic abscess drainage

Endoscopic abscess drainage is surgery performed using ultrasound guidance to accurately remove abscesses and fluid collections in certain parts of the body. This allows real-time viewing and infiltration of the abscess cavity.

Cerebral infections

frequently asked questions

What are the common signs of cerebral infections?

High fever
Headaches
Disorientation
Vomiting
Stiffness in the neck

How does a brain abscess form?

A cerebral abscess occurs when fungi or bacteria enter the brain through the bloodstream or from an infected region in the head (sinuses or ears).

What is the medical procedure for brain abscesses?

Large brain abscesses will need to be treated through surgery. Surgery involves entering the skull to access the brain. The abscess is drained or removed completely.

The essence of neurosurgery is where the surgeon's skill, the patient's hope, and the faith in medical science converge to bring about life-changing outcomes. It's a reminder that in the face of fear, hope and faith can lead to miraculous results.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know when to see a neurosurgeon?

When you develop dizziness, pain, numbness, and headaches—generalised yet concerning symptoms—it's time to visit your neurosurgeon.

VIEW FAQ