Which procedure involves removing a portion of the skull to create space for swollen brain tissue?

Which procedure involves removing a portion of the skull to create space for swollen brain tissue?

• A. Craniectomy
• B. Craniotomy
• C. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt
• D. Herniation

Answer: (A)

Removing a portion of the skull to create space for swollen brain tissue is a decompressive craniectomy. By taking out part of the skull and not replacing it immediately, the swollen brain has room to expand, which lowers intracranial pressure and reduces the risk of brain herniation. The bone may be left off temporarily or replaced later when swelling subsides, sometimes with a prosthetic option if needed. This differs from a craniotomy, where a bone flap is removed to access the brain for a specific surgical procedure and is typically replaced after the operation. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt diverts cerebrospinal fluid away from the brain to the abdomen, addressing hydrocephalus rather than providing space for swelling. Herniation is a dangerous consequence of increased pressure, not a surgical procedure.

Removing a portion of the skull to create space for swollen brain tissue is a decompressive craniectomy. By taking out part of the skull and not replacing it immediately, the swollen brain has room to expand, which lowers intracranial pressure and reduces the risk of brain herniation. The bone may be left off temporarily or replaced later when swelling subsides, sometimes with a prosthetic option if needed.

This differs from a craniotomy, where a bone flap is removed to access the brain for a specific surgical procedure and is typically replaced after the operation. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt diverts cerebrospinal fluid away from the brain to the abdomen, addressing hydrocephalus rather than providing space for swelling. Herniation is a dangerous consequence of increased pressure, not a surgical procedure.