Our Summary

This research paper looks at the results of a specific type of surgery called a re-do craniotomy, which is performed on patients with recurring cancer that has spread to the brain (cranial metastases). The study looked at 29 patients who had this surgery between 2006 and 2013. The researchers found that the average age of these patients was 57 years old.

Two patients had serious complications after having the re-do surgery. Five patients needed more than two surgeries for their recurring disease. On average, patients lived for 18 months after their first surgery. After the re-do surgery, patients lived for an average of 7.6 months. Most patients (90%) lived at least 3 months after their re-do surgery, and about two-thirds (65.5%) lived at least 6 months.

Based on these results, the researchers concluded that re-do surgery could be a good treatment option for patients with recurring cranial metastases.

FAQs

  1. What is a re-do craniotomy?
  2. What were the outcomes for patients who underwent a re-do craniotomy for recurring cranial metastases?
  3. According to the research, how long do patients typically live after a re-do craniotomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about craniotomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could strain the surgical site. It is also important for patients to communicate any new symptoms or concerns to their healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a craniotomy are those with:

  1. Brain tumors: Craniotomy is commonly performed on patients with brain tumors, whether they are primary brain tumors or metastatic tumors that have spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

  2. Traumatic brain injuries: Patients who have experienced a severe head injury may require a craniotomy to remove blood clots, repair damaged blood vessels, or reduce swelling in the brain.

  3. Aneurysms: Patients with a brain aneurysm, a bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that could rupture and cause a stroke, may need a craniotomy to clip or coil the aneurysm and prevent a rupture.

  4. Epilepsy: In some cases, patients with epilepsy that is not controlled with medication may undergo a craniotomy to remove the area of the brain that is causing the seizures.

  5. Infections: Patients with brain abscesses or other infections in the brain may require a craniotomy to drain the infection and remove any infected tissue.

  6. Other conditions: Craniotomy may also be recommended for patients with other conditions affecting the brain, such as tumors or cysts.

Overall, the decision to recommend a craniotomy for a patient will depend on their specific condition, overall health, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before the craniotomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with cancer that has spread to the brain (cranial metastases)
  • Patient undergoes initial surgery and treatment for the cancer
  • Cancer recurs in the brain, leading to the need for a re-do craniotomy
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their medical team and decides to undergo the re-do surgery

After the craniotomy:

  • Patient undergoes the re-do craniotomy procedure
  • Recovery period in the hospital, which can vary in length depending on the individual patient and any complications
  • Follow-up appointments with doctors to monitor progress and assess any potential complications
  • Patient’s quality of life and survival time are assessed post-surgery
  • Patients may undergo additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to manage the cancer recurrence

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after a craniotomy for recurring cranial metastases involves diagnosis, treatment decisions, surgery, recovery, and ongoing monitoring and treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of a craniotomy in my specific case?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a craniotomy?

  3. What is the success rate of a re-do craniotomy for patients with recurring cranial metastases?

  4. How many surgeries might I need for my recurring disease?

  5. What is the average recovery time and expected outcome after a craniotomy?

  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?

  7. How will the surgery impact my quality of life and daily activities?

  8. What is the long-term prognosis for patients who undergo a re-do craniotomy?

  9. What post-operative care and follow-up will be necessary after the surgery?

  10. Are there any specific factors or conditions that could affect the success of the surgery in my case?

Reference

Authors: Kennion O, Holliman D. Journal: Br J Neurosurg. 2017 Jun;31(3):369-373. doi: 10.1080/02688697.2017.1302072. Epub 2017 Mar 14. PMID: 28290227