Surgery
Craniotomy
A craniotomy temporarily removes part of the skull to give a surgeon access to the brain, for example to remove a tumour or clot.
Quick answer
Craniotomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A craniotomy is an operation in which a section of the skull bone is removed to reach the brain, then replaced at the end. It is the general approach used for many types of brain surgery.
- Why it is done: It is used to remove brain tumours, clots or bleeds, treat aneurysms, relieve pressure, take biopsies, and treat some other brain conditions, depending on what is found.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic (or sometimes awake for certain areas), the surgeon removes a piece of skull, carries out the necessary work on the brain, then replaces and secures the bone.
What it is
A craniotomy is an operation in which a section of the skull bone is removed to reach the brain, then replaced at the end. It is the general approach used for many types of brain surgery.
Why it is done
It is used to remove brain tumours, clots or bleeds, treat aneurysms, relieve pressure, take biopsies, and treat some other brain conditions, depending on what is found.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic (or sometimes awake for certain areas), the surgeon removes a piece of skull, carries out the necessary work on the brain, then replaces and secures the bone. It can take several hours.
Recovery
Close monitoring in hospital follows, often starting in intensive care or a specialist ward. Recovery depends heavily on the reason for surgery and can take weeks to months, sometimes with rehabilitation.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
As major brain surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, swelling, seizures, and effects on brain functions such as movement, speech or memory, depending on the area involved.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Craniotomy: frequently asked questions
Will I be awake during brain surgery?
Usually you are asleep under general anaesthetic. However, for operations near areas controlling speech or movement, part of the surgery is sometimes done awake so the team can check these functions.
How long does recovery take after a craniotomy?
It varies widely with the reason for surgery and the area involved, from a few weeks to several months, and some people need rehabilitation to regain functions.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Society of British Neurological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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