Brain Tumours Brisbane | Queensland Neurosurgery & Spine Surgery
Queensland Neurosurgery & Spine Surgery (QNS) specialises in brain tumour surgery in Brisbane, QLD, with over 20 years of fellowship-trained neurosurgical experience. If you or someone you love has received a brain tumour diagnosis, QNS is here to guide you every step of the way. Call 07 3421 6000 to request a referral or speak with our team today.
// What Are Brain Tumours?
Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells that develop within or near the brain. They may arise from brain tissue itself (primary tumours) or spread from elsewhere in the body (secondary, or metastatic, tumours). Not all brain tumours are cancerous, but both benign and malignant types can affect brain function depending on size and location. Early assessment by a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon helps determine the most appropriate course of action.
Benign vs Malignant Tumour Types
The most common types managed at QNS include the following.
▸ Glioma: A primary tumour arising from the brain's glial cells, ranging from slow-growing to aggressive depending on grade.
▸ Meningioma: A tumour forming on the membranes surrounding the brain, most often benign but capable of causing significant pressure if left untreated.
▸ Pituitary tumour: A growth on the pituitary gland that may disrupt hormone regulation and vision.
▸ Metastatic tumour: A secondary tumour that has spread to the brain from a cancer elsewhere in the body, such as the lung or breast.
Each tumour type may require a different treatment strategy, which is why accurate diagnosis comes first.
How Are Brain Tumours Diagnosed?
Brain tumours are typically diagnosed through imaging studies and, where indicated, a tissue biopsy. Your neurosurgeon may order one or more of the following.
▸ MRI scan: The most detailed imaging tool for identifying tumours, their size, and relationship to surrounding structures.
▸ CT scan: Often used as a rapid first-line investigation, particularly when symptoms present suddenly.
▸ Biopsy: A tissue sample may be collected to confirm tumour type and guide treatment planning.
Surgical Treatment Options for Brain Tumours
Surgery is often a key part of managing brain tumours in Brisbane, and QNS offers advanced techniques tailored to each patient's condition and goals.
▸ Craniotomy: A surgical procedure to open the skull and access the tumour directly, removing as much tissue as safely possible.
▸ Awake craniotomy: Used when a tumour is near areas controlling speech or movement, allowing the surgical team to monitor function in real time while the patient remains comfortable and communicative during critical stages.
▸ Endoscopic surgery: A minimally invasive approach for certain tumour types and locations, using a small camera and instruments passed through tiny incisions.
The QNS surgeons, Drs Bruce Hall, Rumal Jayalath, Paul Nichols, and Elena How, completed fellowship training via the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in intracranial surgery, with many undertaking additional sub-specialty training. Surgery is only recommended when it is the most appropriate option for the individual patient.
Recovery and What to Expect
Recovery varies depending on tumour type, size, location, and surgical approach. Most patients can expect a hospital stay of several days, followed by a graduated return to activity. The QNS team provides post-operative support and coordinates care with oncology, radiation therapy, and neuropsychology specialists as needed. Every patient receives a personalised management plan designed around their specific needs.
Your Referral Pathway to QNS
A valid referral is required to access specialist neurosurgical care in Australia and to claim Medicare rebates on your consultation.
1. Visit your GP or treating specialist and discuss your symptoms or imaging results.
2. Request a referral letter addressed to Queensland Neurosurgery & Spine Surgery.
3. Gather any recent MRI or CT scan discs, your referral, and your Medicare or health fund details.
4. Contact QNS on 07 3421 6000 to book your initial consultation.
5. Attend your appointment at Suite 325, Ramsay Specialist Centre, Greenslopes, QLD, 4120, where your neurosurgeon will review your case and outline your options.
You can also learn more about the full range of neurosurgical services available at QNS before your appointment.