How a craniotomy is performed

During a craniotomy, a neurosurgeon cuts through the scalp and temporarily removes a section of the skull, called a bone flap, to access the brain. After the condition is treated, the bone flap is replaced and secured with plates and screws.

People who have a craniotomy are usually under general anesthesia. This means they are in a sleeplike state. Sometimes, an "awake craniotomy" may be used to monitor brain function during the procedure. This procedure uses local anesthesia, and the care team may provide light intravenous sedation.

After surgery, CT scans are usually used to check results. These scans show the bone flap in place and the small plates and screws used during the procedure.