awake craniotomy
Neurosurgical procedure performed while the patient remains conscious to monitor brain function.
Full Definition
An awake craniotomy is a specialized neurosurgical technique where the patient remains conscious and responsive during brain surgery, typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation. This approach is essential when operating near eloquent brain areas that control critical functions such as speech, language, or fine motor control. During the procedure, the surgical team conducts real-time neurological testing, asking the patient to perform tasks like speaking, counting, or moving specific body parts to ensure that vital brain functions are preserved. The technique significantly reduces the risk of postoperative neurological deficits and is considered the gold standard for resecting tumors in functional brain regions.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize patient consciousness aspect when distinguishing from standard craniotomy procedures.
In Context
- "The patient underwent awake craniotomy for resection of a left frontal tumor." — operative note
- "Language mapping during awake craniotomy confirmed safe tumor margins." — procedure report