Hearing the words “brain tumor” can be one of the most unsettling moments of a person’s life—but a meningioma diagnosis is rarely the worst-case scenario, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our Mercer County neurosurgical team pairs deep clinical expertise with a calm, patient-centered approach, helping you move forward with clarity, confidence, and genuine hope.
For nearly two decades, patients throughout New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania have trusted PBSO’s fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeons to deliver world-class care for complex brain conditions, including meningioma. Our specialists are recognized for advanced surgical technique, leadership in minimally invasive and stereotactic radiosurgery technologies, and a steadfast commitment to outcomes. From your first consultation through long-term follow-up, we take the time to educate, answer every question, and tailor each treatment plan to fit your life—because exceptional medicine should always feel human.
What is a Meningioma?
Formed on the meninges, the membrane covering the brain and spine, most meningiomas are benign. In fact, this type of tumor is the most common benign brain tumor in adults (though malignancies do occasionally occur). A small, non-symptomatic meningioma may be monitored with observation over time. In the case of more aggressive, fast-growing tumors, surgery is usually required.
Meningioma Types
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Grade I: The most common type of meningeal tumor. Slow-growing and often curable when completely removed.
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Grade II: Also called an “atypical meningioma,” this type of tumor grows more quickly and may spread.
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Grade III: Often called malignant or “anaplastic,” grade III meningiomas grow quickly and may spread aggressively. They typically cannot be entirely removed by surgery.
Causes & Symptoms
The cause of meningeal tumors is unknown, though some appear to correlate with genetic disorders such as neurofibromatosis. Meningiomas occur more often in women than in men, and tumor symptoms include, but are not limited to:
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Seizures
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Headaches
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Nausea & vomiting
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Loss of brain function
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Sensory problems & numbness
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Loss of coordination
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Weakness in limbs
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Speech problems
After patients report symptoms, the Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics team performs a CT scan or MRI of the brain and spine. When a meningioma is discovered, your surgeon may biopsy the mass to rule out malignancy and develop a treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome. While it is rare that a meningioma is diagnosed before symptoms occur, it does happen. When this is the case, your clinical team may recommend active surveillance with periodic brain scans to assess tumor changes.
Meningioma Removal: Risks & Considerations
When a meningioma disrupts the central nervous system (CNS), it may prevent cells from receiving nutrients and put damaging pressure on delicate nerve structures. These CNS tumors require prompt intervention.
Meningiomas and their treatment may lead to certain complications, such as long-term concentration problems, memory loss, seizures, or personality changes. Your PBSO neurosurgeon offers treatment for complications when possible and may refer you to related specialists for additional symptom management.
In some cases, meningeal tumors grow back after treatment. If this occurs, your surgeon will recommend additional options that may include surveillance, surgery, or radiation.
Meningioma Treatment Options
A majority of meningiomas can be removed surgically and often do not return. In some cases, radiation may be considered if a small piece of the tumor remains after surgery—or if the patient is not healthy enough for surgery. The most common methods of reduction or removal include:
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Radiosurgery. Small meningiomas may be treated with a Gamma Knife, which directs targeted radiation at the tumor. The Gamma Knife disrupts the meningioma’s DNA, interfering with its ability to survive.
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Craniotomy. A craniotomy is performed under general anesthesia and is often the preferred way to remove a meningioma. After making a temporary window in the skull, your PBSO neurosurgeon removes the tumor and a portion of healthy surrounding tissue, then carefully closes the skull and reattaches displaced tissue.
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Endoscopic/Endonasal Approach. In some instances, PBSO neurosurgeons can access and remove a meningioma through the nose using an endoscopic/endonasal tube, computer imaging, and precision instruments. This minimally invasive approach may be used to remove tumors growing in the ventricular chambers.
Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics for Meningioma Care
Patients throughout Mercer County and beyond choose PBSO because our neurosurgeons combine elite, fellowship-level training with the warmth and accessibility of a community-rooted practice. Our team has performed thousands of cranial procedures, partners with the region’s leading hospitals, is in-network with most major insurance plans, and offers conveniently located offices throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania—so you can access the most advanced meningioma care, including treatment for related conditions like brain tumors and acoustic neuroma, close to home. Above all, we treat every patient with the honesty, respect, and reassurance you deserve during one of the most important medical decisions of your life.
Ready to take the next step? Call Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics today at (888) 741-7272 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified neurosurgeons and experience the personalized, expert care that sets PBSO apart.
