Cranioplasty

[Charlie90]

Hi all. in September 2019

I suffered a catastrophic ABI during surgery to coil an anuerysm resulting in craniotomy I have been waiting since then for my cranioplasty I have now got a proposed date for my cranioplasty

Obviously petrified of having further surgery due to my last one not going to plan.

Done lots of work with my psychologist trying to mentally work through the trauma of what happened and my worries of further surgery.

Guess I’m just looking for some positive cranioplasty stories to keep me in a positive frame of mind

& some information about the recovery period I have done lots of research online and I am due to see my surgeon next week to chat about the procedure

[Pairofboots]

Hi Charlie, there was a post earlier today about cranioplasty, I can't remember the author, but they were concerned about a gauze being used, I had to look it up, but the NHS has some good information about this. You have done the hard part, this is about rebuilding you going forward. As you say you will see the surgical team next week. They will be best to give you accurate advice with regards to you. You can do this, and come out the other side stronger and better.

[cat3]

Hi Charlie. I understand your apprehension facing brain surgery. I was 'lucky' in being unconscious with a bleed on the brain when admitted and prepped for surgery so had no idea where I was, or why, when I finally regained consciousness.

I'm wondering whether your aneurism was ready to burst anyway and the coiling triggered it ? Either way, knowing your history the surgeon and theatre staff will be on high alert and extra cautious. These dedicated, highly skilled people want you to leave theatre knowing they've done everything possible to fix you and keep you safe.

I've watched both titanium and bone flap cranioplasties and the attention to the smallest details as well as concern for the patient are a joy to see. Despite the previous, unfortunate issue I'm sure you'll be in excellent hands m'love.

I've heard several stories here of vast improvements in folk's mobility and general wellbeing after this repair. Do you know yet whether you're having the titanium cranioplasty or bone flap ? xx

[Charlie90 in reply to cat3]

Hi cat thank you for your reply. I was ‘lucky during the first anuerysm as was in and out of consciousness second one was elective and then I woke up about 6 weeks post surgery following a coma and my life being changed forever.

My surgeon has told me in the past he will use artificial bone which he has a lot of success with and lower infection rates. which I’m not actually sure what it is made from another question for me to add to my long list to ask him next week.

I am trying to focus on my positive future if sll goes well and be hopeful about my recovery I am also very keen to be rid of the helmet that I’ve had to wear for almost two years which I hate more than anything and refuse to wear it outside the privacy of my house. So I guess that is setting me back a little as I just want to be back out in the world, living my life.

Thank you to all you lovely people-for your replies

I will of course keep you all updated on how the op goes when I’m well enough to use my phone post surgery.

[cat3 in reply to Charlie90]

Seems like your surgeon wants the best possible option for you Charlie, both cosmetically and safety-wise. Look forward to hearing you're all done & dusted before too long.

All best wishes, xx

[S21NTE]

Hi Charlie, My husband is approx 10 weeks post cranioplasty and he is doing amazing.

He was discharged as an inpatient after just 48 hours, which in my opinion was far too early, but after about a week he really turned a corner.

He has had a titanium mesh.

It’s helped massively with balance, eased his headaches and he can now confidently cough and sneeze without immense pain.

It’s also eased some of his pins and needles in his hands and arms.

You will likely have lots of swelling, black eyes and tenderness.

My hubby had some creaks and whooshing noises/ sensations for a few weeks but apparently that’s normal.

Plus his jaw has been quite restricted and tender.

He has his post op appointment over the phone next week but overall I would say this has been a game changer for him.

Wishing you a safe surgery and all the best with your recovery. x

[philcollis]

Hi Charlie, I had a crainiotomy 40 odd years ago. Brain swelling during 9 hour operation meant they couldn't put the top of my skull back on......they kept it in a fridge and popped it back on 3 months later the swelling had increased the 'gap' in my skull but they just attached some 'mesh' to fix it on, I have a dip/dent in the top of my head but doesn't cause any problems - can give the barber a bit of a shock sometimes though . Craniotomies are not uncommon but if you have any concerns talk to the surgical team.

[Headshrink]

Hi. I was also really anxious about this and am now an expert on cranioplasty. Risk of infection etc. All sounds awful. However. I had my cranioplasty in 2019. Exactly 2 weeks later i recall sitting for breakfast with my kids and for the1st time in years felt like i wasnt totally exhausted and not needing to go back to sleep. It has been brilliant and no more helmet and no infection. Interesting fact cranioplasty is one of the oldest surgical procedures known to mankind. Romans and aztec skulls found with metal plates, usually gold. Mines just titanium!. Good luck. Youll be fine

[Lisers]

Good few years ago now but husband had his done and recovered quickly no problem . Sadly he had to have removed again a couple of years later as it became infected ( a tiny little sore that wouldn’t heal ) and so had to have removed again and he came through that fine as well . These surgeons know what they are doing so I’m sure you will be fine

[Charlie90]

Hi all you lovely people.

I thought I would post an update

So I had my cranioplasty surgery on 22nd July all went well and as planned.

I was discharged home today. I am very swollen & bruised and got quite abit of pain which has eased over the last few days NO MORE HELMET WOOHOO

[twice in reply to Charlie90]

So pleased for you that all went ok