(A.K.A Awake Brain Mapping)
Awake brain surgery, (aka awake brain craniotomy) is a type of brain surgery that is conducted when a person is fully awake and alert. Usually, an anesthesiologist gives the patient sedatives to eliminate discomfort.
Contrary to popular opinion, conducting brain surgeries whilst the patient is awake decreases risk of damaging critical brain areas. These surgeries help neurosurgeons operate on parts of the brain that would otherwise be inoperable, since they are located too close to areas that control major functions like vision, or speech.
The neurosurgeon uses technology and computer mapping to map out the areas of your brain that perform vital functions, and to sometimes locate a tumour. Using those images, they conduct their operation and are able to extricate the tumour, and keep your brain healthy.
As with all surgeries, awake brain surgeries have a risk factor as well. Surgeries gone wrong can result in impairment of functions like coordination, balance, swelling of brain tissue, etc. Awake brain surgeries usually aid in removing tumours that are located too close to important parts of your brain.
We hope you learnt something! And don't forget, next time you're awake, go get brain surgery :)
References :
Comments