Brain Tumor Treatment & Management in San Diego, CA

Expert Neurosurgical Care: From Microsurgery to Radiosurgery to Skull-Base Approaches

A brain tumor diagnosis can be overwhelming. But with the right team, you don’t have to face it alone. Dr. Sanjay Ghosh offers advanced, compassionate care for patients facing brain tumors, covering every major treatment option: modern surgery, high-precision radiosurgery, and skull-base procedures tailored for complex tumors.

Call (619) 810-1010 or request a consultation online to take the first step toward clarity and care.

What Is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor represents an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or its surrounding structures. Tumors vary widely:

  • Benign vs Malignant — Some tumors grow slowly and remain localized; others are aggressive and may spread.
  • Primary vs Metastatic — Primary tumors begin in the brain; metastatic tumors originate from cancer elsewhere and spread to the brain.
  • Location & Growth Pattern Matter — Tumors on the brain surface, deep inside, at the skull base, or near critical structures affect treatment and outcomes differently.

Because each tumor is unique, personalized evaluation and care are essential.

Common Symptoms That Warrant Evaluation

Brain tumors may cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on size and location. Seek evaluation if you experience:

  • Persistent or worsening headaches, especially in the morning or at night
  • Seizures or new-onset convulsions
  • Changes in vision, double vision, or blurred vision
  • Balance problems, dizziness, or difficulty walking
  • Nausea or vomiting, especially with headaches
  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling in arms, legs, or face
  • Cognitive changes, memory issues, confusion, speech or concentration difficulties
  • Unexplained fatigue, mood changes, or personality shifts

Even if symptoms are mild, early diagnosis often leads to better outcomes.

How Brain Tumors Are Diagnosed

  1. Thorough Neurological Evaluation

A detailed review of symptoms, medical history, and a neurological exam to assess strength, coordination, balance, vision, and reflexes.

  1. Advanced Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), often with contrast, remains the gold standard for detecting and defining brain tumors. In some cases, CT scans or functional MRI may be used to map critical brain areas.

  1. Biopsy (If Needed)

When imaging alone doesn’t offer a definitive diagnosis, a small tissue sample may be taken to determine tumor type and guide treatment.

  1. Personalized Treatment Planning

Based on tumor type, size, location, and patient goals, treatment options are reviewed with clarity and compassion.

Why Choose Dr. Ghosh for Brain Tumor Care

  • Board-certified neurosurgeon with specialized training in brain tumors and skull-base surgery
  • Extensive experience treating benign, malignant, deep-seated, and complex intracranial tumors
  • Offers full-spectrum treatment options: microsurgery, minimally invasive skull-base approaches, Gamma Knife, and CyberKnife radiosurgery
  • Uses advanced technology, including neuro-navigation, intraoperative monitoring, and modern surgical suites
  • Provides clear explanations and realistic, honest expectations before any procedure
  • Builds personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s diagnosis, goals, and lifestyle
  • Coordinates care with neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, and rehabilitation when needed
  • Delivers accessible, ongoing follow-up and support for patients across San Diego County
  • Known for a calm, compassionate, patient-first approach that prioritizes safety and long-term quality of life

Whether it's a small meningioma, a deep-seated glioma, or a complex skull-base lesion, Dr. Ghosh evaluates each case thoroughly — always aiming for maximum safety and quality of life.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Ghosh to discuss which treatment option best fits your needs.

Comprehensive Treatment Options: Magnetic Neurosurgery, Radiosurgery & Skull-Base Techniques

Traditional Surgical Resection

When feasible, surgical removal of the tumor aims for maximal safe resection while preserving neurologic function. Craniotomy or microsurgical techniques may be used depending on tumor location and complexity.

Skull-Base & Cranial-Base Surgery

For tumors located at the base of the skull or near critical nerves and blood vessels, Dr. Ghosh uses specialized skull-base approaches. These techniques allow safe access to deep brain regions while minimizing impact on surrounding structures.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (Non-Invasive): Gamma Knife & CyberKnife

For many tumors — especially small, well-defined, or hard-to-reach lesions — non-invasive radiosurgery offers a powerful alternative.

  • Gamma Knife Radiosurgery delivers highly focused gamma-ray beams with sub-millimeter precision, targeting the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. It’s often used for benign and malignant tumors, vascular abnormalities, and functional disorders.
  • CyberKnife Radiosurgery employs a robotic arm and real-time tracking to deliver radiation from multiple angles, without requiring a rigid head frame. It’s versatile, comfortable, and extends treatment to complex or sensitive tumor sites.

These radiosurgery options may be used as standalone therapy or combined with surgical resection and/or radiation therapy, depending on what’s best for each patient.

Integrated Oncologic & Supportive Care

For malignant or complex tumors, treatment may involve a multidisciplinary team including neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and rehabilitation for optimal long-term results.

What to Expect: From Consultation Through Long-Term Care

Initial Visit & Work-Up

  • Review symptoms and medical history
  • Neurological exam + advanced imaging
  • Clear discussion of diagnosis, treatment options (including risks vs benefits)
  • Personalized care plan

If Surgery Is Recommended

  • Safe removal or reduction of the tumor
  • Post-operative monitoring and imaging
  • Neurological assessment and rehabilitation if needed

If Radiosurgery Is Chosen

  • Non-invasive, outpatient procedure
  • Minimal discomfort and downtime
  • Regular follow-up imaging to monitor tumor response

Long-Term Care & Monitoring

  • Periodic MRI scans, neuro-checks, and follow-ups
  • Collaborated care with oncology, rehabilitation, and support services
  • Ongoing communication and compassionate care every step of the way

Frequently Asked Questions

Can benign tumors still be dangerous?

Is surgery always the first step?

What’s the difference between shunt surgery and ETV?

Can it recur after surgery?

Is hydrocephalus treatable in adults?

Explore Related Procedures

Learn more about other advanced spine procedures performed by Dr. Ghosh:

Brain Tumors 
It can block CSF flow and increase intracranial pressure.

Ependymoma
Tumors within the ventricular system that directly affect CSF pathways.

Cerebral Aneurysms
Vascular issues that may contribute to pressure-related symptoms.

Pituitary Adenoma
Growths near structures involved in fluid regulation.

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
Non-invasive treatment used for select cranial tumors and functional disorders.

 

Trusted Neurosurgical Care Across San Diego County

Dr. Sanjay Ghosh proudly provides expert neurosurgical care for patients across San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Carmel Valley, Chula Vista, Clairemont, Coronado, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Hillcrest / Bankers Hill, La Jolla, La Mesa, Mira Mesa, Mission Valley, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe, Santee, Scripps Ranch, Solana Beach, and University City / UTC.

Patients throughout the region rely on Dr. Ghosh’s Mission Valley clinic for advanced brain and spine treatment with compassionate, individualized care.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you or a loved one has symptoms of hydrocephalus, early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
Dr. Sanjay Ghosh and his dedicated team provide comprehensive, personalized care for both adult and pediatric patients.

Start Your Hydrocephalus Treatment

Call or request your consultation online to schedule an evaluation for hydrocephalus treatment in San Diego.