Geriatric brain surgery refers to the medical field that encompasses the medical and surgical treatment of brain, spinal cord, and nervous system problems in elderly adults. Brain and nervous system diseases acquire different characteristics with advancing age, leading to specific care and treatment needs for elderly adults.

The scope of geriatric brain surgery is broad. It may include conditions such as brain tumors, hydrocephalus (accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid), stroke, degenerative brain diseases (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease), vertebrobasilar artery disease, brain hemorrhages, traumatic brain injury, and nerve compression. These diseases often arise as a result of aging and can negatively impact the quality of life of elderly adults.

Geriatric brain surgery requires an approach tailored to the special needs of elderly adults. It is common for elderly individuals to deal with brain diseases alongside other health issues and age-related complications. Therefore, geriatric brain surgery is managed by a multidisciplinary team, which includes brain surgeons, neurologists, radiologists, rehabilitation specialists, and geriatric care experts.

Treatment options in geriatric brain surgery may involve surgical interventions, radiotherapy, pharmacological treatments, rehabilitation programs, and supportive care services. Surgical procedures may aim to remove tumors, correct hydrocephalus, address vascular blockages, or relieve nerve compressions.

The goal of geriatric brain surgery is to improve the health status of elderly adults, preserve or restore neurological functions. Postoperative rehabilitation and supportive care are important because the recovery process for elderly adults may take longer and require more care due to age-related factors.

Geriatric brain surgery represents a specialized approach to the treatment of brain and nervous system diseases in elderly adults. Surgeons and healthcare professionals specialized in this field aim to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of elderly adults, with the goal of improving their quality of life and supporting their overall health.