Craniotomy

Understanding Craniotomy

A craniotomy involves a surgical procedure wherein a small portion of the skull is removed to expose the brain. This approach grants surgeons access to the brain for tasks such as brain tumor removal, aneurysm repair (treatment of a bulging artery), or other necessary interventions. Once the brain surgery is complete, the removed bone fragment is meticulously replaced and secured using sutures or wires.

The precision of computer technology and 3-D imaging plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy of surgery, especially in relation to the tumor’s exact location. Depending on the case, your doctor may extract a portion of the tumor for examination or completely remove the tumor. During this process, the surgeon focuses solely on removing the tumor while preserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible.

Post-surgery, your neurological and brain functions will undergo assessments, and you’ll be given physical therapy exercises to help you regain strength and balance.

North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center‘ skilled surgeons are available to assist you in selecting the most suitable treatment path for your neurological and spine conditions. To arrange an appointment at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center, please dial 919-784-7550.

Preparing for a Craniotomy

Undergoing a craniotomy requires thorough preparation to ensure the best possible outcomes. Patients will undergo comprehensive health assessments to determine their suitability for the procedure, followed by imaging scans, such as MRI or CT scans, and detailed consultations with the surgical team to understand the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes.

Patients should follow all pre-operative instructions provided by their healthcare team to prepare both physically and mentally for a craniotomy.

What to Expect During the Craniotomy Procedure

A craniotomy involves several critical steps carried out with precision and care by the neurosurgical team at NC NeuroSpine:

1. Anesthesia: Administration of general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility during the operation.
2. Scalp Incision: A precise incision in the scalp to access the skull.
3. Skull Opening: Removal of a section of skull bone to expose the underlying brain.
4. Surgical Intervention: The necessary surgical intervention on the brain, performed with state-of-the-art equipment.
5. Closure: Replacement of the skull bone and closure of the incision using sutures or staples.

We execute each step using the latest techniques and technologies available in neurosurgery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Craniotomy

Recovery from a craniotomy is straightforward, with close monitoring by our medical team. Expect a hospital stay for observation and initial recovery, which may last several days. Additionally, we will prescribe medication to manage pain and discomfort post-surgery.

Once you’re ready for discharge, we recommend that you continue to rest and avoid strenuous physical activities. After a few weeks, we can guide you in a gradual reintroduction of normal activities. With this, we highly encourage you to stick with regular check-ups to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Rehabilitation may also include therapies to help regain any lost functions and ensure the best recovery possible.

Why Choose NC NeuroSpine for Craniotomy

NC NeuroSpine is a leader in neurosurgical care as our surgeons are highly trained and experienced in performing complex brain surgeries. We also use the most advanced technology to enhance surgical precision and patient safety. Finally, we have a multidisciplinary approach–one that combines comprehensive care with the expertise of our neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, and rehabilitation specialists.

Choosing NC NeuroSpine means choosing a team committed to exceptional patient care and outstanding surgical outcomes. Schedule a consultation today should you need additional information and guidance on brain surgery in North Carolina.