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Craniotomy
A craniotomy is a brain surgery in which a section of the skull is temporarily removed to give the neurosurgeon direct access to the brain. Once the brain procedure is complete — removing a tumour, clipping an aneurysm, draining a haematoma, or treating epileptic foci — the bone flap is replaced and secured. At Iswarya Hospital, craniotomies are performed by our experienced neurosurgical team using neuro-navigation and intra-operative monitoring for maximum safety and precision.
How Craniotomy is performed
- 1
General anaesthesia is administered and the head is fixed in a special frame.
- 2
The scalp is incised and retracted; a small section of skull is cut and removed (the bone flap).
- 3
The dura (tough outer membrane of the brain) is carefully opened.
- 4
The neurosurgeon performs the required procedure under microscope or endoscope guidance.
- 5
The dura is sutured closed; the bone flap is replaced and secured with small titanium plates.
- 6
The scalp is closed and the patient is transferred to the neuro ICU.
Benefits of Craniotomy
- ✓Allows complete or near-complete removal of brain tumours
- ✓Clips and secures ruptured or unruptured brain aneurysms
- ✓Drains life-threatening intracranial haematomas
- ✓Modern neuro-navigation improves precision and minimises damage to healthy brain tissue
- ✓Intra-operative monitoring protects speech, motor, and sensory function
Preparing for Craniotomy
- MRI and CT brain with contrast for pre-operative planning.
- Functional MRI or neuropsychological testing if operating near eloquent brain areas.
- Pre-operative anti-epileptic and steroid medications are started.
- Shave the scalp only in the operative area (minimal hair removal).
- Arrange for extended family support — recovery requires several weeks.
Risks and side effects of Craniotomy
- Brain swelling (cerebral oedema) after surgery
- Infection — meningitis or wound infection
- Seizures — anti-epileptic medications are given routinely
- Neurological deficits depending on brain area operated (weakness, speech or vision changes)
- Blood clots (DVT/PE) — prevented with compression stockings and blood thinners
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
Recovery after Craniotomy
- Monitoring in the neurology ICU for 24–48 hours post-operatively.
- Head elevation to 30 degrees reduces brain swelling.
- Anti-seizure medications are continued as prescribed.
- Physiotherapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy as needed.
- Follow-up MRI at 6 weeks to assess the surgical result.
Craniotomy FAQs
Is the skull bone permanently removed?
No. In most craniotomies the bone flap is replaced at the end of the operation. If there is severe brain swelling, the bone may be stored temporarily and replaced later (cranioplasty).
Will I have a visible scar?
The incision is made within the hairline in most cases, so the scar is not visible once hair regrows. The titanium plates used to secure the bone are not visible or palpable.
Craniotomy at Iswarya Hospital
Trusted expertise and global-standard neurological care, covering both neurology and neurosurgery for a wide range of brain and spine conditions.
Neurology specialists for Craniotomy
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Ask the treating team about alternatives, preparation, expected stay, recovery and a written estimate. Follow their instructions for your case.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.