During a craniectomy, part of the skull is removed in order to relieve intracranial pressure.
Also Known As:
- Depression craniectomy
- Brain surgery
- Skull surgery
Conditions Treated with a Craniectomy:
A craniectomy is performed in cases of brain trauma or intracranial pressure, which can result in permanent brain damage.
There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to a craniectomy.
Anesthesia with a Craniectomy:
Craniectomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from a Craniectomy:
Possible risks following a craniectomy include infection, nerve damage, brain damage, seizures, brain swelling, hemorrhage, coma, cerebral vasospasm and a negative reaction to the anesthesia.
Recovery from a Craniectomy:
Recovery from a craniectomy takes one to four weeks, or longer.