Cranioplasty after Craniectomy: Timing and Technique

Cranioplasty after craniectomy for trauma or intracranial pressure management is a commonly performed neurosurgical procedure. In addition to cosmesis, replacement of the bone flap has been shown to increase cerebral profusion, enhance cerebrospinal fluid flow patterns, and improve neurologic status in patients. This chapter serves to provide a guide to the decisions that the surgeon makes when considering cranioplasty, including indications for the procedure, timing, choice of material, closure and wound care, and considerations in pediatric patients.