What is a Craniotomy?
A craniotomy is a surgical procedure in which part of the skull is removed in order to view the brain. The piece of skull removed is called a “bone flap.” After the necessary brain surgery is performed, the bone flap is fitted back into the skull. Craniotomies are designated in different ways. A frontotemporal, parietal, temporal or suboccipital craniotomy is named after the bone that is removed. The minimally invasive “keyhole” craniotomy, on the other hand, is named after the small dime-sized incision that is made in the skull.
Why are Craniotomies performed?
Craniotomies, which are performed by neurosurgeons, are appropriate in a number of situations, including for:
- Diagnosing/removing/treating brain tumors, including meningiomas
- Removing blood or blood clots, including subdural hematomas
- Repairing tears in the membrane that lines the brain
- Repairing or clipping aneurysms
- Draining brain abscesses
- Removing arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
- Repairing skull fractures
- Repairing tears in the membrane lining the brain
- Treating epilepsy
- Implanting stimulator devices to treat movement disorders
Craniotomies are also used to relieve pressure within the brain caused by traumatic injury or stroke.
The Craniotomy Procedure
A craniotomy is performed, sometimes under general anesthesia, in a hospital. An incision is made in the scalp (which is shaved at the incision site), and the bone flap is removed to allow access to the treatment area. There are cases in which patients remain awake during surgery, and are asked to move their legs, recite the alphabet or tell stories to ascertain whether brain functioning has been affected. Location of the incision will depend upon the area being treated. A medical drill may be used to create small holes (as in keyhole craniotomy), or a special saw may be used to cut the bone flap. Once the procedure is complete, any tissue that has been cut into is stitched together, and the bone flap is reattached using plates, sutures or wires.
How long does a Craniotomy Procedure take?
The time required for these procedures varies widely depending upon the size and location of the tumor, along with the types of symptoms the patient had prior to surgery.
How long does it take to recover after an Awake Craniotomy?
After your surgery, we may request an MRI to ensure that the removal of the tumor was complete. You’ll be in intensive care for a while immediately following your craniotomy, and you’ll have 2-3 days in the hospital.
There isn’t much, if any, real physical pain. Your incision or incisions will be sore for about 5 days after your surgery. You will probably feel very tired for several weeks after this procedure. You may also have headaches or problems concentrating.
Most patients can return to work and normal activities in anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions about the Craniotomy Procedure
Have more questions? Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about craniotomies, please call our office today to schedule an appointment. With locations in Dallas, TX the providers at Texas Neurosurgery are proud to service patients in Dallas, Plano, Richardson, and nearby areas.
