Word parts
What it means
The surgeon lifts a flap of bone (a bone flap) to operate on the brain, for example to remove a tumor, drain blood, clip an aneurysm or relieve pressure. The bone is usually fixed back in place with small plates and screws; if the brain is very swollen it may be left off for a time (craniectomy).
For the nurse
After surgery, do frequent neuro checks, including level of consciousness, pupils and movement, and report any decline at once. Keep the head of the bed raised about 30 degrees with the head in line with the body, prevent straining, coughing and neck bending, and watch for seizures and for clear fluid leaking from the nose or wound.
At a glance
| Spanish | craneotomía |
|---|---|
| Also written | craniotomies |
Related terms
intracranial pressure
The pressure inside the skull, made by the brain, the blood and the fluid around the brain.
-otomy
A word ending that means cutting into, or a surgical incision.
oculomotor
Having to do with movement of the eyes; most often refers to the oculomotor nerve, the third cranial nerve.