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Brain surgery

Definition

Brain surgery treats lesions of the brain and its surrounding structures through an opening (craniotomy) in the skull (cranium).

Description

The hair on part of the scalp is shaved. The scalp is cleansed and prepared for surgery. An incision is made through the scalp and a hole is drilled through the skull. A piece of the skull is removed (usually temporarily) and the surgery is performed, after which the bone is replaced and secured in place.

Indications

Brain surgery may be needed to treat:

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia are:

  • reactions to medications
  • problems breathing
Risks for any surgery are:
  • bleeding
  • infection
Additional risks of brain surgery are:
  • injury to brain tissue
  • injury to blood vessels
  • nerve or muscle paralysis or weakness
  • loss of mental functions (memory, speech, understanding)

Expectations after surgery

The results depend greatly on the underlying disease being treated, the general health of the patient, the extent of the procedure and the surgical techniques employed.

Convalescence

The recovery time varies from 1 to 4 weeks. Full recovery may take up to 8 weeks.

Illustrations

Before and after hematoma repair
Before and after hematoma repair

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