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DR. JASKARAN SINGH

Senior Consultant - Neurosurgery

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DR. JASKARAN SINGH

Senior Consultant - Neurosurgery

Manipal Hospitals, Patiala

Craniotomy: What It Is, Procedure, Recovery & Risks

Posted On: Nov 09, 2023
blogs read 3 Min Read
Craniotomy It's Procedure, Recovery & Risks

What is a craniotomy?

A craniotomy is a type of brain surgery in which a surgeon removes a small piece of the skull to access the brain. It is one of the most common types of neurosurgery and is performed to treat a variety of conditions, including:

  • Brain tumours
  • Aneurysms
  • Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
  • Fractured skulls
  • Bleeding in the brain
  • Epilepsy
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Infections in the brain.

 

Craniotomy procedure

A craniotomy is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the scalp and remove a small piece of the skull. The brain will then be exposed, and the surgeon can perform the necessary procedure. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon will replace the skull and suture the incision closed. Manipal Hospitals Patiala has some of the best neurosurgeons in Patiala for your health needs. 

Craniotomy recovery

Most people stay in the hospital for a few days after a craniotomy. The recovery time will vary depending on the individual's condition and the complexity of the surgery. However, most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks or months.

Risks of craniotomy

Like any surgery, there are some risks associated with a craniotomy too. These risks may include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Stroke
  • Seizures
  • Nerve damage
  • Fluid buildup in the brain
  • Death.

 

Most of these risks can be minimised by opting to undergo the craniotomy procedure at a multispecialty hospital where emergency care and backup support are available 24*7. Further, following the advice given by doctors is another way to ensure that the patient makes a full recovery. Manipal Hospital Patiala has some of the best critical care teams and infection control protocols to ensure patient safety. 

Ways to keep healthy and spot early signs of neural disorders

There are several things you can do to keep your brain healthy and spot early signs of neural disorders. These include:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Managing stress
  • Seeing your doctor for regular checkups.

 

Some of the early signs of neural disorders include:

  • Headaches
  • Seizures
  • Memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty speaking or writing
  • Numbness or weakness in the limbs
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Vision changes
  • Hearing changes
  • Changes in mood or behaviour.

 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away.

Manipal Hospital Patiala is a leading centre for craniotomy surgery in India. The hospital has a team of highly skilled and experienced neurosurgeons who use the latest technology and techniques to perform craniotomies. Manipal Hospitals Patiala also has a dedicated neurocritical care unit to provide specialised care for patients after craniotomy surgery. If you are considering a craniotomy, or if you have any concerns about your brain health, please contact Manipal Hospitals Patiala for more information.

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