What does an awake craniotomy with fluorescence-guided resection involve?

This procedure combines two advanced techniques to maximize safe tumor removal while preserving critical brain functions. First, the patient is given a drink containing 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) several hours before surgery, which causes tumor cells to glow pink under a special microscope. During the operation, the patient is woken up to perform simple tasks (e.g., speaking or moving) so the surgical team can map and avoid eloquent brain areas. An intraoperative MRI is then used to confirm the extent of resection before closing. This integrated approach allows surgeons to remove more tumor tissue while minimizing neurological deficits.