A surgical procedure on the brain carried out while the patient is conscious and awake is called an awake craniotomy. In contrast to conventional brain surgery, this process enables communication between the surgical team and the patient during the process.
An awake craniotomy enables real-time assessment of brain function and minimizes the risk of neurological damage. In this article, we will explore the purpose and benefits of the awake craniotomy procedure.
What is Awake Craniotomy?
During an awake craniotomy, the surgeon may give local anesthesia to numb the scalp and skull. He may also administer sedation to keep the patient relaxed and comfortable.
Once the skull is opened, the neurosurgeon stimulates specific areas of the brain using electrical probes to map out vital functions such as speech, movement, and sensation. This mapping allows the surgeon to navigate around critical brain regions and safely remove tumors or lesions.
Why Would I Need an Awake Craniotomy?
There are several reasons why you might need an awake craniotomy. One common reason is to remove brain tumors located near critical brain regions responsible for speech, motor function, or sensory perception.
By performing the surgery while the patient is awake, the surgical team can precisely identify and preserve these vital areas. It can reduce the risk of postoperative neurological deficits.
Additionally, an awake craniotomy may be necessary for epilepsy surgery, where the surgeon needs to localize and resect seizure-generating areas of the brain without damaging the eloquent cortex.
Furthermore, awake craniotomy allows for immediate feedback from the patient during surgery. It can enable the surgeon to adjust their approach in real time based on the patient’s responses.
This interactive process enhances the precision and safety of the procedure, resulting in better outcomes.
Book your Awake Craniotomy in Dallas, TX
An awake craniotomy is a specialized surgical technique that allows for the precise mapping and resection of brain lesions. If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumor, epilepsy, or other neurological condition requiring surgery, an awake craniotomy may be the suitable option.
If you need a consultation for a craniotomy, call us at 214-823-2052 and schedule an appointment with Texas Neurosurgery.
Our experienced neurosurgical team will discuss whether an awake craniotomy is the right option for you, and they will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.