 | Cranioplasty |
What is a cranioplasty?
A cranioplasty is a surgical procedure performed to repair a bone defect which may be present in the bone of the skull. This defect may be caused by a trauma to the head or a complication due to earlier surgery. This procedure involves lifting the scalp and restoring the shape of the skull with an original skull or a custom contoured graft. This graft may be made with titanium, synthetic bone substitute or a prefabricated customised implant.
When is a cranioplasty needed?
A cranioplasty may be recommended for the following reasons:
- To protect the brain because a cranial defect has left the brain more vulnerable to damage.
- To improve neurological function with the use of a cranial implant.
- To improve the appearance of the skull because a skull defect may affect a person's appearance and confidence.
- To reduce headaches which may be caused by previous surgery or injury.
What does a cranioplasty entail?
During the procedure, you will be given general anaesthesia, and the hair above the affected area will be shaved off and cleaned with an antiseptic solution, which will also prevent the risk of infection. You will then be given local anaesthesia, and the neurosurgeon will make an incision on your scalp while protecting the membrane that covers the brain, called the dura mater.
The edges of the surrounding bone will be cleaned and prepared in order for the bone graft or implant to be positioned properly. The defect will be corrected with the use of an implant or bone graft and is secured in place with screws, plates or both. Bleeding will be controlled, the scalp is put back into place, and the incision will be stitched closed. A catheter may be left in place to drain any excess cerebrospinal fluid. The catheter will be removed a few days after cranioplasty surgery.
