A craniotomy is done to treat the following conditions of the brain:

• tumor
• aneurysm

• infection

• swelling (cerebral edema)

• bleeding inside the skull
• blood clot
• brain abscess
• skull fracture
• dura mater tear
• arteriovenous malformation
• arteriovenous fistula
• intracranial pressure
• epilepsy

The procedure is also used to implant devices for movement disorders, like Parkinson’s disease.

To prepare for the surgery, you’ll have one or more preoperative appointments with your neurosurgeon.

They’ll use various tests to confirm you can safely undergo the procedure. This will likely include:

• physical exam
• blood tests
• neurological exam
• imaging of the brain (CT or MRI)

Your surgeon will also determine the surgical site based on your medical condition and type of craniotomy.

On the night before your surgery, you’ll fast (not eat) after midnight. You might also need to wash your hair with antiseptic shampoo.

Once the anesthesia makes you fall asleep, your surgeon will shave the hair on the surgical site. They’ll also clean the area to reduce the risk of infection.

Your surgeon will make an incision on your scalp. They’ll use a medical drill and saw to remove a piece of bone called a bone flap.

Next, your surgeon will cut the dura mater to access the brain. The dura mater is the brain’s outermost membrane.

Your surgeon will perform the procedure and remove tissue samples, if necessary.

When the procedure is done, they’ll stitch the tissue back together. They’ll replace the bone flap with wires, stitches, or plates.

Finally, your surgeon will stitch or staple the skin incision, then apply a sterile bandage.

The procedure can take approximately 2 1/2 hours.

You’ll be taken to the recovery unit or intensive care unit when the procedure is complete. Nurses will monitor your vitals as you wake up.

You’ll be taken to your hospital room once your vitals are stable. You can expect to stay at the hospital for about 1 week.

After a craniotomy, follow your doctor’s orders for bathing and incision care. Take your prescription medication as directed.

You can expect to be out of work for at least 6 weeks.