Craniotomy

A craniotomy is the surgical removal of part of the skull to gain access to the brain. With the guidance of computers and imaging to reach the precise location within the brain, special tools are used to remove the section of bone called the bone flap. The bone flap is temporarily removed then replaced once the surgery is complete. A craniectomy is a similar procedure where a portion of the skull is permanently removed or replaced later during a second surgery after the brain swelling has gone down.

Dr. Fayaz uses craniotomies and craniectomies to repair and treat the following conditions:

• Repair of skull fracture and cranial reconstruction
• Repair of traumatic brain injuries
• Evacuation of traumatic intracranial hematoma – see video
• Evacuation of subdural hematoma – see video
• Excision of brain tumor – see video
• Excision of brain cysts
• Excision of brain abscess
• Evacuation of brain intracerebral hemorrhage
• Decompression for cerebral infarction
• Decompression for Chiari malformation – see video
• Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt for hydrocephalus

Craniotomy for Intracerebral Hematoma

This surgery treats a blood clot that has formed in your brain. It relieves pressure on your brain tissue caused by the buildup of blood.

Craniotomy for Subdural Hematoma

This procedure, performed under general anesthesia, creates an opening through the skull for removal of a blood clot on the surface of the brain. Subdural hematomas commonly result from trauma to the head and can place harmful pressure on the brain.

Craniotomy for Tumor

This procedure, performed under general anesthesia, creates an opening through the skull for brain tumor removal. The surgery usually requires between two to five hours to complete. The length of surgery depends on the type and size of the tumor.

Craniectomy for Chiari Malformation (Foramen Magnum Decompression)

This surgery makes more space for your brain tissue. It’s used to treat a condition called “Chiari malformation.” That’s when part of your brain pushes down out of your skull and into your spinal canal.