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Awake craniotomy for the removal of tumours
SURGICAL TECHIQUE FOR THE REMOVAL OF BRAIN TUMOURS
Our neurosurgeons can remove tumours near functionally-sensitive parts of the brain, using an awake craniotomy
What is an awake craniotomy?
During an awake craniotomy, a patient is brought back to consciousness during part of the procedure, but any painful parts of the surgery are performed under anaesthetic.
This is an effective way to remove tumours near areas of the brain that control speech, language, movement or sight (‘eloquent’ cortex).
By performing the procedure this way, the neurosurgeon can test regions of the brain and functionality throughout the operation.
Need to know
An awake craniotomy normally begins under general anaesthetic, which means you'll be asleep.
Part of your head will be shaved, and a small cut made in your scalp. A piece of the skull will then be removed (craniotomy). At this point, you'll be woken up and may be asked to carry out tasks, such as reading out loud.
Your neurosurgeon may then map the brain using electrodes to identify important areas to avoid and protect during the procedure. Once the tumour is located and removed, your neurosurgeon will replace the bone and closes the skin incision.
It is not painful however some patients may feel a tugging sensation.
Part of your head will be shaved, and a small cut made in your scalp. A piece of the skull will then be removed (craniotomy). At this point, you'll be woken up and may be asked to carry out tasks, such as reading out loud.
Your neurosurgeon may then map the brain using electrodes to identify important areas to avoid and protect during the procedure. Once the tumour is located and removed, your neurosurgeon will replace the bone and closes the skin incision.
It is not painful however some patients may feel a tugging sensation.
Your HCA UK neurosurgeon will explain your awake craniotomy to you and answer any questions you might have.
Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. You may also be asked to attend a nurse-led pre-assessment clinic.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. You may also be asked to attend a nurse-led pre-assessment clinic.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
After your awake craniotomy, you'll be transferred to our recovery area, where you’ll be looked after by a specialist team.
Your neurosurgeon will explain your recovery time to you and when you can expect to get back to your usual routine.
Your neurosurgeon will explain your recovery time to you and when you can expect to get back to your usual routine.
Our Awake craniotomy for the removal of tumours consultants
Mr Christopher Chandler
Neurosurgery
Mr Francesco Vergani
Neurosurgery
Professor Keyoumars Ashkan
Neurosurgery
Mr Ranjeev Bhangoo
Neurosurgery
Our Awake craniotomy for the removal of tumours locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Chelsea Outpatients
280 King's Road SW3 5AW London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David's gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.