Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
craniotomy
A surgical procedure involving the temporary removal of a bone flap from the skull to access the brain.
Full Definition
Craniotomy is a neurosurgical procedure in which a section of the skull (bone flap) is temporarily removed to provide access to the brain for tumor resection, biopsy, or other interventions. The bone flap is typically replaced at the end of the procedure. This differs from craniectomy, where the bone is permanently removed. In neurosurgical oncology documentation, the specific type and approach of craniotomy must be clearly specified for accurate medical records.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from craniectomy in all surgical documentation.
In Context
- "A right frontoparietal craniotomy was performed for tumor resection." — Operative report
- "The craniotomy site showed no signs of infection at the two-week follow-up." — Post-operative note
Also known as
skull opening procedure
Contrasted with
craniectomy
Don't confuse with
craniectomy
cranioplasty
trepanation