Cranioplasty is a medical procedure that involves the surgical repair or reconstruction of a damaged or missing part of the skull. It is derived from the combination of two words: "cranium," which refers to the skull, and "plasty," which means to shape or mold.
This procedure is typically performed when a section of the skull has been removed due to trauma, surgery, or to relieve pressure on the brain. The primary goal of cranioplasty is to replace the missing part of the skull, providing protection for the brain and restoring the normal contour and appearance of the skull.
During the procedure, the surgeon may use a variety of materials to reconstruct the skull, including autografts (tissues taken from the patient's own body), allografts (tissues from a donor), or synthetic materials like titanium mesh or plastic. The choice of material depends on several factors, such as the extent of the skull defect, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's preference.
Cranioplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon will make an incision on the scalp to access the skull. The damaged or missing part of the skull will then be reconstructed using the chosen material, and the incision will be closed with sutures or clips.
This procedure carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, bone resorption, and implant failure. However, cranioplasty has proven to be an effective and beneficial procedure for patients with skull defects, allowing them to regain function, aesthetics, and protection for the brain.
