What is Craniotomy?

A craniotomy is a surgery done on the head. The surgeon cuts through the skull to reach the brain. There are different types of craniotomies, including:

• Burr hole—A small hole is made in the skull.
• Traditional craniotomy—A piece of skull is cut out and then put back after the surgery.
• Stereotaxy—A computer is used to help find where things are in the brain during the surgery.
• Awake craniotomy—The patient is awake during part of the surgery.

Craniotomy © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

The success of this surgery depends on the reason for the surgery. The most common reasons for a craniotomy include:

• Biopsy —to obtain a brain tissue sample
• Brain cancer
• Head trauma
• Blood clot in the brain
• Blood vessel problems with the brain
• Nerve disorders
• Brain swelling
• Brain infection

Possible Complications

If you are planning to have a craniotomy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Brain swelling
• Damage to your brain which may cause:

• Changes in memory, behavior, thinking, or speech
• Vision problems
• Problems with balance
• Bowel and bladder problems
• Seizures
• Paralysis or weakness
• Reaction to anesthesia (eg, light-headedness, low blood pressure, wheezing)
• Heart attack
• Blood clots

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Any changes in physical ability (balance, strength, or movement)
• Any changes in mental status (level of consciousness, memory, thinking, or responsiveness) *...