Craniotomy/Decompressive Craniectomy Surgery in Pimpri Chinchwad Pune, India

Craniotomy and decompressive craniectomy are life-saving neurosurgical procedures performed to treat critical conditions affecting the brain. These surgeries involve opening the skull to relieve pressure or access areas of the brain requiring treatment.

Introduction

What is a Craniotomy?

A craniotomy is a surgical procedure where a part of the skull (skull flap) is temporarily removed to access the brain for treatment. Once the procedure is complete, the bone flap is replaced and secured.

What is a Decompressive Craniectomy?

In a decompressive craniectomy, a section of the skull is removed and not immediately replaced. This allows the swollen brain to expand safely, reducing life-threatening intracranial pressure. A follow-up surgery called cranioplasty is performed later to restore the skull structure.

Craniotomy vs. Craniectomy – Key Differences

• Craniotomy: Skull flap removed and replaced in the same surgery
• Craniectomy: Skull flap removed and replaced at a later stage
• Purpose: Craniotomy is often for tumor removal; craniectomy is typically emergency-based to relieve pressure
• Outcome: Both aim to preserve brain function and save lives

When Is Craniotomy Recommended?

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Brain tumors
• Brain hemorrhage
• Stroke-related brain swelling
• Hydrocephalus
• Elevated Intracranial Pressure (ICP)
• Brain Abscess or Infections

Types of Craniotomy Procedures

• Conventional (Open) Craniotomy
• Minimally Invasive Craniotomy
• Stereotactic Craniotomy
• Endoscopic-Assisted Craniotomy
• Keyhole Craniotomy

Goals of Decompressive Craniectomy

• Relieve intracranial pressure
• Prevent further brain damage due to swelling
• Preserve brain function and reduce mortality in emergency cases

The Surgical Procedure

Craniotomy:

• Skull flap removal
• Brain is accessed for tumor removal, clot evacuation, etc.
• Skull flap is replaced and fixed using plates and screws

Decompressive Craniectomy:

• Skull section removed and not replaced immediately
• Allows swollen brain to expand
• Cranioplasty performed after 6–12 weeks

Preoperative Preparation

• CT/MRI for brain imaging
• Blood tests and general fitness assessment
• Detailed patient counseling and consent process

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

• ICU monitoring typically 24–72 hours
• Pain control, seizure prevention, infection monitoring
• Neuro-rehabilitation: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy
• Cranioplasty for craniectomy patients

Risks and Complications

• Risk of infection
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage
• Seizures
• Temporary or permanent neurological deficits

Advantages of Timely Surgery

• Saves lives in emergency conditions
• Minimizes long-term brain damage
• Enables faster recovery from tumors or injuries
• Enhances quality of life with early intervention

Cranioplasty – Follow-Up Surgery

• Done after swelling subsides (usually after 6–12 weeks)
• Restores skull shape and protection
• Materials used: autologous bone, titanium mesh, PEEK implants

Why Choose Aditya Birla Hospital?

• 24x7 Emergency Neurosurgery Services
• Experienced team of neurosurgeons and critical care experts
• Advanced neurosurgical tools and navigation systems
• Dedicated Neuro ICU and rehabilitation support
• Multidisciplinary care approach for comprehensive recovery

Aditya Birla Hospital is widely recognized as one of the best neuroscience hospitals in Pimpri, Pune, offering advanced surgical care for craniotomy and decompressive craniectomy. With a team of highly experienced neurosurgeons in pcmc, state-of-the-art neurocritical care infrastructure, and a strong focus on patient safety and outcomes, the hospital is dedicated to delivering comprehensive treatment for complex brain conditions.

Cost of Craniotomy and Craniectomy

• Varies by condition, complexity, and hospital stay
• Insurance and cashless options available