Craniectomy

Craniectomy is a surgical procedure where a part of the skull is removed to allow a swelling brain to expand without being squeezed. It is performed on patients suffering from brain lesions or swelling, where the swollen brain would otherwise be pressing against the skull and causing damage.

Indications

Craniectomy is usually performed after a traumatic brain injury, stroke, or brain tumor. It can also be performed to treat hydrocephalus, brain herniation, and cerebral edema.

Procedure

During a craniectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the scalp and uses a special type of saw to remove a piece of the skull. The dura mater, the tough outermost layer of the meninges surrounding the brain, is then opened to allow the brain to expand. The piece of skull that was removed is usually stored in a freezer and can be reattached once the swelling has gone down, a procedure known as a cranioplasty.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with craniectomy. These can include infection, bleeding, and damage to the brain. There is also the risk that the swelling may not go down and the piece of skull may not be able to be reattached.

Recovery

Recovery from a craniectomy can take a long time and often involves rehabilitation. The length of recovery time can depend on the reason for the surgery and the patient's overall health.

See Also

• Craniotomy
• Decompressive Craniectomy
• Brain Surgery
• Neurosurgery

References

Craniectomy Resources
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