Cranioplasty

What is a cranioplasty?

A cranioplasty is the surgical repair of a bone abnormality (defect) within the skull due to an injury or previous operation. There are several types of cranioplasties, and most involve elevating the scalp and restoring the shape of the skull with a natural skull fragment or bone graft, which is comprised of titanium, synthetic bone material, or a customised graft made of biomaterial.

A cranioplasty may be performed for one of the following reasons:

• The procedure helps strengthen the skull as the exposed the brain is vulnerable to potential damage.
• A cranioplasty may improve neurological function by creating a barrier between the brain and the skin flap which is subject to atmospheric pressure.
• Enhance the aesthetic appeal of the skull, which involves improving its contours to boost the patient’s self-confidence.
• Minimise headaches from a previous operation or traumatic head injury.

How do you perform a cranioplasty?

A cranioplasty is performed with utmost care and safety measures. The patient is heavily sedated under general anaesthetic and positioned optimally and strategically. The area of the skull is shaved and cleaned with an antiseptic solution. An incision is meticulously created in the scalp and divided into layers to safeguard the dura, a protective covering of the brain. The margins of the nearby bone are thoroughly cleaned and prepared before carrying out the entire procedure. This is done so that the cranial implant can be positioned accurately within the defect, after which screws and sometimes plates are used to secure the implant to the cranial bones. Once the implant or bone is safely and securely positioned, bleeding is managed, the scalp is repositioned, and a suture is used to seal and protect the incision site. A suction drain is left to remove the build-up of excess fluid, ensuring a safe and successful procedure.