Craniotomy Care

A craniotomy is a type of brain surgery where a small part of the skull is carefully removed so doctors can reach the brain and treat the problem. This is done under general anesthesia, so the patient is fully asleep and does not feel anything during the procedure.

Once the surgery is over, the removed bone is usually put back in its place. If the bone is not put back right away, the surgery is called a craniectomy.

A craniotomy may be needed in conditions such as:

• Removal of blood or blood clots inside the brain or surrounding membranes
• Diagnosis and removal of brain tumors
• Removal of abnormal blood vessel growth (AV malformation)
• Drainage of pus from a brain abscess
• Treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or skull fractures

Like any major surgery, craniotomy carries certain risks, including:

• Infection or pneumonia
• Seizures
• Brain swelling
• Muscle weakness
• Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Rare risks may depend on the location of surgery and can include:

• Memory problems
• Speech or language difficulties
• Paralysis
• Loss of balance or coordination

• Initial Care: Patients are first managed in the ICU for close monitoring. Once stable, they are shifted to a hospital room or a rehab care facility for recovery and rehabilitation.
• Recovery Timeline: Most patients require several days of hospital or rehab stay to regain strength and prevent complications.

Recovery after a craniotomy does not end with surgery. Patients need multidisciplinary rehabilitation care to regain independence and quality of life.

• Medical Monitoring: Oxygen support (if needed), neurological checks (muscle strength, pupil response, orientation).
• Skilled Nursing: Monitoring health status, safe medication administration, wound and tube care, tracheostomy and catheter management.
• Nutrition & Positioning: Tube feeding or assisted oral feeds; raising the head of the bed to reduce swelling.
• Early Mobility: Gradual ambulation with physiotherapy to restore balance and strength.
• Bedsore Prevention: Risk assessment, turning, and skin care.
• Physiotherapy: Muscle strengthening, balance training, and exercise plans tailored to recovery.
• Speech & Swallow Therapy: Safe reintroduction of oral feeds; assistance with speech restoration.
• Respiratory Therapy: Chest physiotherapy, breathing exercises, and tracheostomy care.
• Clinical Nutrition: Personalized diet plans prepared by dieticians for recovery and discharge.
• Wellness Counseling: Emotional support to cope with ICU experience and long-term hospitalization.
• Occupational Therapy: Training in daily activities (dressing, grooming, fine motor skills) to regain independence.

• Pioneers in Rehabilitation Care: India’s first specialized model for post-hospitalization and rehab.
• Multidisciplinary Expertise: Experienced doctors, nurses, therapists, dieticians, and counselors working together.
• Personalized Recovery Plans: Care tailored to each patient’s condition and goals.
• Home-like Environment: State-of-the-art facilities with single AC rooms and accommodation for an attendant at no extra cost.
• Focus on Safety: Strict infection prevention and control practices.

Healing after brain surgery requires expert care, compassion, and the right environment. At HCAH SuVitas, we ensure your loved one gets the support they need for a safe and faster recovery.

Q1. How long does it take to recover after a craniotomy?
Recovery time varies depending on the condition treated, but rehab usually begins soon after surgery and continues for weeks to months.

Q2. Is rehabilitation always needed after craniotomy?
Yes. Rehabilitation helps restore movement, speech, and independence, preventing long-term complications.

Q3. Can patients return to normal life after craniotomy?
With timely rehabilitation and multidisciplinary support, many patients return to independent living and daily activities.