What Is a Burr Hole?
A burr hole is a hole that is surgically placed in the skull, also known as the cranium.
Quite simply, a burr hole is a small hole made in the skull with a surgical drill.
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The burr hole, or often holes, is a necessary part of the vast majority of brain surgeries.
The skull is very hard, making a traditional incision with a scalpel impossible.
This leaves a window for the surgeon to work through.
Why Is a Burr Hole Used?
A burr hole is used when there is a problem with the brain that must be treated surgically.
There are many reasons why asurgeonwould need to perform brain surgery that begins with a burr hole.
As with any surgery, the risks of the procedure need to be weighed against the potential benefits.
In some casestypically after a trauma or injuries to the brainsurgery may be performed as a last resort.
This is done to protect the airway and to deliver oxygen during surgery.
Within moments, the anesthesia will take effect, and the patient will be positioned for surgery.
Afoleycatheteris typically placed during this time, if not already in place prior to the procedure.
A specialized air drill is then used to penetrate the skull.
Some brain surgeries, such as a ventriculostomy, require only one burr hole to perform the surgery.
Once the burr hole is completed, an additional incision must be made in the dura.
The dura is the tough covering over the brain.
While it seems to be a thin film, it is actually quite strong and must be moved aside.
The rest of the procedure is performed via the burr hole or the craniotomy.
Once complete, the dura may be stitched together or the incision left open.
The skin will be placed back into its normal position and stitches or staples used to end the incision.
