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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
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Anteromesial Temporal Lobectomy for Medically Intractable Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: An Operative Study
Published on: August 15, 2025
The long-term effect of craniotomy on temporalis muscle function
Pedro A S Rocha-Filho1, Fábio J C Fujarra, José L D Gherpelli
1Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil. pasrf@ig.com.br
Summary
Craniotomy for cerebral aneurysm treatment can cause jaw pain and limited movement. Post-craniotomy headache patients experienced more masticatory muscle tenderness and functional jaw limitations.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Craniotomy for cerebral aneurysm treatment is a significant surgical procedure.
- Potential complications include neurological deficits and secondary effects on craniofacial structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate jaw movements and masticatory muscle function in patients post-craniotomy for cerebral aneurysm.
- To identify correlations between post-craniotomy symptoms and oro-facial functional impairments.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive study design was employed.
- Seventy-one patients were evaluated 4-6 months after craniotomy.
- Systematic assessment included dental evaluation, palpation for masticatory muscle tenderness, and jaw movement analysis.
Main Results:
- Headache was reported by 47.9% of patients.
- Jaw movement pain occurred in 28.2% of patients, with a correlation between pain and jaw movement (P = .03).
- Patients with post-craniotomy headache showed increased masticatory muscle tenderness (P < .02) and impaired jaw protrusion (P < .01).
Conclusions:
- Headache is a common post-craniotomy complaint.
- Jaw movement dysfunction and masticatory muscle tenderness are significant findings in this patient cohort.
- Craniotomy for cerebral aneurysms can lead to functional limitations in jaw movement.