HEMICRANIECTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Hemicraniectomy is a medical procedure that involves the removal or partial removal of a large portion of one side of the skull to relieve increased pressure within the brain. It is typically performed in cases where there is severe brain swelling or edema that is compromising the brain's ability to function properly.
During a hemicraniectomy, a neurosurgeon surgically removes a segment of the skull, usually a flap, to create an opening in the cranial cavity. This procedure allows the brain to expand and relieve the dangerous pressure inside the skull. The removed skull segment is often preserved and stored for potential future re-implantation.
Hemicraniectomy is primarily utilized in emergency situations, such as traumatic brain injuries, strokes, or swelling resulting from other neurological conditions. By reducing the pressure on the brain, hemicraniectomy can help prevent further damage to the brain tissue and potentially save a patient's life.
Although hemicraniectomy can be life-saving, it is not without potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, seizures, or difficulties with wound healing. Rehabilitation and recovery can be a long process, and patients may experience physical and cognitive challenges following the procedure.
Overall, hemicraniectomy is an invasive surgical intervention undertaken to alleviate life-threatening conditions caused by brain swelling or increased intracranial pressure, with the aim of preserving and restoring brain function.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMICRANIECTOMY
- hemicraniectomi
- hemicraniectomq
- hemicraniectomx
- hemicraniectwomy
- h emicraniectomy
- he micraniectomy
- hem icraniectomy
- hemi craniectomy
- hemic raniectomy
- hemicr aniectomy
- hemicra niectomy
- hemicran iectomy
- hemicrani ectomy
- hemicranie ctomy
- hemicraniec tomy
- hemicraniect omy
- hemicraniecto my
- hemicraniectom y
Etymology of HEMICRANIECTOMY
The word "hemicraniectomy" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "hemi" and "kranion".
- "Hemi" (ἡμι) means "half" or "semi" in Greek.
- "Kranion" (κρανίον) refers to the "skull" or "cranium" in Greek.
Therefore, the term "hemicraniectomy" literally means "removal of half of the skull". It is a surgical procedure involving the partial removal of the cranium to relieve pressure on the brain.
