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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
A Craniotomy Surgery Procedure for Chronic Brain Imaging
Published on: February 15, 2008
Awake Craniotomy for Tumour Excision
K Prabhakaran1, Cvr Mohan2, P C Tripathy3
1Classified Specialist (Anaesthesia and Neuroanaesthesia), 166 Military Hospital, C/o 56 APO.
Background:
Craniotomy and excision of tumours can produce neurological deficits if the tumour is located close to eloquent areas of the brain. One technique of overcoming this problem is to keep the patient 'awake' during surgery.
Methods:
Eight patients with intra cranial space occupying lesions (ICSOL) were operated 'awake', using a combination of skull block with sedation and analgesia. A mixture of 0.125% bupivacaine and 0.5% lignocaine was used for various nerve and field blocks. Midazolam, fentanyl and propofol in titrated doses were used to achieve conscious sedation.
Result:
The procedure was successful in all the patients. They tolerated the procedure well and were able to follow the commands intraoperatively as desired. There were no significant complications.
Conclusion:
Awake craniotomy with skull blocks with sedation and analgesia is a well established procedure. It requires a good rapport between surgeon, anaesthesiologist and the patient.
