Burr hole

Burr Hole is a medical procedure used in neurosurgery. It involves drilling a small hole into the skull to relieve pressure on the brain or to allow access for surgical instruments. The procedure is named after the type of drill bit used, known as a burr.

History

The use of burr holes in medicine dates back to ancient times, with evidence of the procedure, known as trepanation, found in prehistoric human remains. The procedure was used to treat a variety of ailments, from headaches to mental disorders. In modern medicine, the use of burr holes has become a standard procedure in neurosurgery.

Procedure

The burr hole procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon first marks the location of the hole on the scalp. A small incision is then made in the scalp and the underlying tissue is moved aside to expose the skull. The surgeon then uses a special drill to create the burr hole. Once the hole is made, the surgeon can insert instruments through the hole to perform the necessary procedure.

Uses

Burr holes are used in a variety of neurosurgical procedures. They can be used to relieve pressure on the brain caused by subdural hematoma or epidural hematoma. They can also be used to insert shunts for the treatment of hydrocephalus. In addition, burr holes can be used to access the brain for biopsy or for the removal of brain tumors.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the use of burr holes. These can include infection, bleeding, and damage to the brain or other structures. However, with modern surgical techniques and equipment, the risks are generally low.

See also

• Craniotomy
• Neurosurgery
• Trepanation