The Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute offers an integrated, tailored approach to caring for tumors and disorders of the skull base, the part of the head behind the eyes and nose.
Our multidisciplinary team includes neurosurgeons, otorhinolaryngologists, endocrinologists, neuro-ophthalmologists, audiologists, oncologists and radiation oncologists. We take pride in creating tailored treatment plans for each patient based on their condition, using the latest technology and most advanced techniques.
Conditions
The many types of skull base tumors and conditions are classified by type and location in the skull base. Examples of conditions we treat include:
- Pituitary tumors
- Acoustic neuromas
- Chordomas
- Sinonasal Undifferentiated carcinoma
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- Rathke’s cysts
- Schwannomas
- Esthesioneuroblastomas
- Encephaloceles
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- Meningiomas
- Glomus tumors
- CSF leaks
- Craniopharyngiomas
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We hold regular multidisciplinary case conferences to discuss treatment for more complex cases, drawing on the expertise of a variety of specialists.
Treatment
While some patients require surgery, many can be monitored carefully for years for tumor growth or side effects.
Surgery can be complex because there are many blood vessels, nerves and other structures in the area. Historically, surgeons used an open technique when operating, and some patients still need this type of approach. But, our surgical team also has extensive experience in the latest minimally invasive techniques that are less risky and patients recover more quickly.
Care Coordination
Our nurse navigator, Elizabeth Saunders RN, is here to help patients and their families with all aspects of their journey and plan of care. You can always contact her with questions or concerns at Elizabeth.Saunders@hhchealth.org, or 959.333.6018.
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