Titanium Mesh Plate

[JackyeMS]

Hello all. I’m new to the site so still trying to learn my way around. I had a craniotomy 7 weeks ago to remove a benign tumor from my skull. That part of my skull was replaced with a titanium mesh plate. The surgery went great and my recovery has been good. The only “issue” I’m having is worrying over the strength of the mesh plate. My doctor has told me, many times and quite emphatically, that I want to avoid any kind of blow to my head. He even said I want to avoid anything heavy laying on my head! Now I’m worried about anything even getting near my head. Is the plate so thin that if I take a knock to my head it’s going to collapse and expose my brain? Does anyone have any information on this? I’m worried that I’m going to have such anxiety over this I’m not going to want to leave my house. I’m even wondering if I need to wear one of those protective helmets. Anyone have any advice or suggestions? Thanks.

[Gina1972]

Hi Jacky I too had a metal plate fitted on the 12th April this year and I know exactly what you mean but I honestly wouldn't worry about it as it's a very strong metal that would take a hell of a blow to effect it. I'm still sore and scabby and constantly Think I'm going to get an infection but I'm getting better slowly. This is a great group to get help and advice and id be lost without it. Defo helps when someone has had the same and can talk to you.

[JackyeMS in reply to Gina1972]

Thanks for the response Gina. I had my surgery on March 20th so I’m about 3 weeks ahead of you in my recovery. I’m sure you’re right about the strength of the mesh but the doctor has been so insistent in reminding me, it’s got me totally freaked out.

I saw in your most recent post that you’re having the pinching, pulling sensation pain. I’m still having that also but it has lessened in the last week. Not so intense as it was. Dr said I’d probably experience that for some time, until fully healed, if not longer. Hope you’re doing well in your recovery.

[Gina1972 in reply to JackyeMS]

Getting there love x I'm here if u wanna chat x

[cej77]

Hi Jacky, I too have a titanium plate, is it the same as a titanium mesh plate? I don't know! I was just told it was a titanium plate and that it's really strong, stronger than a normal skull! Even being told that I am always extra careful with things as I still worry about causing some kind of damage. My second plate was put in in Sep 2016, following the first I got an infection and had to have it removed! Since the second one everything has been fine, hope everything goes ok for you too! Clare

[JackyeMS in reply to cej77]

Hi Clare. The two plates are different, at least in appearance/construction. The plate is a full piece, the mesh is..well, mesh. From what I know, the mesh is malleable so can be formed to whatever shape needed during the surgery and there’s less chance for infection with it. I haven’t really read up on the type you have. I’m glad you’re doing well now after having yours replaced. Can’t imagine having to have that surgery twice! Glad I didn’t get any kind of infection. Thanks for the reply.

[Tess99]

How large is the area it covers, and where is it? Nothing replaced the bone that was removed in my skull, and It’s been fine for over 4 years now. I am naturally skittish and protective of the area, though. But it’s been fine. Mine is at the base of my skull, and about 2.5 cm.

[JackyeMS in reply to Tess99]

It is on the top right side of my skull. The area that was removed is 7.7 x 7.1 x 1.5 cm. Way too large not to cover.