In the world of neurosurgery, Dr. Arun Rajeswaran shines bright with his skill and dedication to patients. With years of experience and a drive to push boundaries, he's focused on aiding those with neurological issues. Today, let's dive into craniotomy, looking at its types and when it's time to see a neurosurgeon.

Craniotomy, although it may seem scary, is a common surgery for neurological problems. It involves removing part of the skull to reach the brain. Learning about its types and when to see a neurosurgeon can help ease concerns.

Types of Craniotomy:

A traditional craniotomy is the usual way to access the brain. It starts with a scalp incision, then removing part of the skull to reach the brain. Doctors use it for brain tumors, injuries, or blood vessel problems.

Keyhole Craniotomy also known as minimally invasive craniotomy, this technique involves making a smaller incision and using specialized instruments to access the brain. Keyhole brain surgeries have a quicker recovery and fewer risks than traditional ones. They're commonly done for smaller tumors or hard-to-reach brain areas.

Endoscopic craniotomy involves using a tiny camera and light on a flexible tube to see and reach the brain through a small cut. A gentler approach commonly treats issues such as hydrocephalus, pituitary tumors, and specific cysts.

Awake Craniotomy this specialized type of craniotomy is performed while the patient is awake under local anesthesia. It helps the brain surgeon watch brain activity as it happens, reducing the chance of harming important brain parts. Awake craniotomies are often used to remove tumors located near eloquent brain regions responsible for language symptoms to Consult a Neurosurgeon for movement or sensation.

Stereotactic Craniotomy It uses detailed images like MRI or CT scans to find the exact spot in the brain that needs treatment. This type of craniotomy is commonly used for deep-seated tumors or lesions that require pinpoint accuracy for safe removal.

Symptoms to Consult a Neurosurgeon:

Bad headaches If you have headaches, especially with throwing up, feeling sick, or having problems with your vision, it might mean something serious with your brain, like a tumor or bleeding.

Seizures If you have fits that keep happening, especially if they start when you're older or come with other brain problems, you should see a brain doctor to check for brain issues.

Mental changes If you suddenly feel confused, lost, or forgetful, it could be a sign of a big brain problem that needs quick medical help.

Balance and Coordination Problems Difficulty maintaining balance, unexplained falls, or coordination problems may be indicative of an underlying brain tumor, stroke, or other neurological condition affecting the cerebellum or brainstem.

Feeling persistently weak or tired without explanation warrants a visit to a neurosurgeon to rule out neurological causes.

Sudden shifts in personality, behavior, or mood, especially if they're unusual, could point to a neurological problem like a brain tumor or infection.

The trouble with speaking, understanding language, or finding words could signal a brain disorder affecting language.

Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously and checked by a doctor, as it might indicate a serious neurological issue like a brain bleed or seizure disorder.

In conclusion,

Understanding the different types of craniotomy and recognizing the symptoms that warrant consulting a neurosurgeon is crucial for early detection and treatment of neurological conditions.