Craniotomy.pdf

A craniotomy is a surgery to cut a bony opening in the skull, removing a section called a bone flap to access the brain underneath, and is performed to treat various conditions such as brain tumors, hematomas, aneurysms, and traumatic head injuries. The bone flap is usually replaced at the end of the procedure with tiny plates and screws. Craniotomies vary in size and complexity, and may involve the use of stereotactic frames, image-guided computer systems, or endoscopes to precisely place instruments through small holes. The procedure is performed by a neurosurgeon, who may work with a team of other surgeons, and requires preparation, including discontinuing certain medications and stopping smoking and alcohol consumption. During surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia, and the head is placed in a skull fixation device to hold it still, and the surgeon makes a skin incision, performs the craniotomy, exposes the brain, and corrects the problem using small instruments.