During
a parietal craniotomy, an incision is made through the top of the skull and a
bone flap, or section of bone, is removed. This is performed in order to
provide access to the brain. The bone flap is stitched back in place after the
procedure.
Also Known As:
Conditions
Treated with a Parietal Craniotomy:
A
parietal craniotomy may be performed in cases of epilepsy, brain trauma, brain
tumors, blood clots, abnormal blood vessels, severe facial or nerve pain or
brain abscess.
There
are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to a parietal
craniotomy.
Anesthesia with a
Parietal Craniotomy:
A
parietal craniotomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the
patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential
Complications from a Parietal Craniotomy:
Possible
risks following a parietal craniotomy include brain damage, intracranial
bleeding, stroke, infection, brain swelling, seizures, coma, cerebral vasospasm
and a negative reaction to the anesthesia.
Recovery from a
Parietal Craniotomy:
Total
recovery from a parietal craniotomy takes one to four weeks, or longer.