Best Doctor List Near You for Craniotomy Surgery in Leadville

Craniotomy surgery is a medical procedure in which a surgeon removes a portion of the skull, called a bone flap, to access the brain. This surgery is performed for various reasons, including the removal of brain tumors, treatment of brain aneurysms, draining blood clots or hematomas, relieving intracranial pressure, repairing skull fractures, or addressing traumatic brain injuries. A craniotomy can also be used to manage infections, perform biopsies, or place medical devices such as shunts to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid. The size and location of the craniotomy depend on the specific area of the brain that requires treatment. The procedure begins with the patient under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision in the scalp to expose the skull. A specialized surgical tool is then used to remove the bone flap, allowing access to the brain. After the surgical intervention is completed, the bone flap is typically replaced and secured with plates and screws. While craniotomy is a life-saving procedure, it carries several risks and potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, brain swelling, seizures, stroke, or damage to brain tissue, which may lead to neurological deficits like speech difficulties, memory loss, or muscle weakness. There are also risks associated with anesthesia and general surgery, such as respiratory issues or cardiovascular complications. Postoperative care involves close monitoring in a hospital setting, often in an intensive care unit, to manage pain, prevent infection, and monitor neurological function. Recovery can be lengthy, depending on the underlying condition and the extent of the surgery, and may involve rehabilitation therapies to regain lost functions.