Craniotomy Surgery

A craniotomy is a significant operation in which a neurosurgeon temporarily removes a portion of your skull to access your brain. This procedure is often necessary for treating serious conditions such as brain tumors, blood clots, vascular malformations, aneurysms, or traumatic brain injuries. After addressing the underlying issue, the surgeon carefully replaces the removed piece of skull, securing it back in place.

Craniotomies are typically performed when less invasive treatments are not an option or have been unsuccessful. The surgery can be life-saving and is often used to remove or reduce a brain tumor, relieve pressure from swelling or bleeding, repair blood vessels, or treat epilepsy. In cases of traumatic brain injury or skull fractures, it may be necessary to do a craniotomy to repair the damage and prevent further complications.

While a craniotomy is a major surgery with inherent risks, it sometimes remains the only effective approach to treat critical brain conditions. Your neurosurgeon will talk about potential benefits and risks with you so that you understand the procedure as well as recovery. The purpose is to improve your condition, relieve symptoms and provide better quality of life.