What is sunken flap syndrome?

Sinking skin flap syndrome or “syndrome of the trephined” is a rare complication after a large craniectomy, with a sunken skin above the bone defect with neurological symptoms such as severe headache, mental changes, focal deficits, or seizures.

What is brain sinking?

The sinking brain and scalp syndrome associated with neurological deterioration after decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain edema is an uncommon condition. The recovery of neurological and imaging deficits following cranioplasty is well known.

Is a craniotomy considered brain surgery?

A craniotomy is type of brain surgery. It involves removing part of the skull, or cranium, to access the brain. The bone is replaced when the surgery is done. In general, a craniotomy is done to remove brain tumors and treat aneurysms.

What is paradoxical herniation?

Background. ​Paradoxical cerebral herniation is a herniation towards the opposite direction of the craniectomy site. It is an underrecognized and potentially life-threatening complication of a craniectomy.

What causes sinking skin?

The syndrome of the “trephined” or the “sinking skin flap” (SSF) syndrome is a rare complication after a large skull bone defect. It consists of a sunken skin above the bone defect with neurological symptoms such as severe headaches, mental changes, focal deficits, or seizures.

Why is my skull sinking in?

Dents in your skull can be caused by trauma, cancer, bone diseases, and other conditions. If you notice a change in your skull shape, you should make an appointment with your doctor. Take note of any other symptoms, like headaches, memory loss, and vision difficulties, that could be connected to a dent in your skull.

How long do you stay in the hospital after a craniotomy?

During the procedure. A craniotomy generally requires a hospital stay of 3 to 7 days. You may also go to a rehabilitation unit for several days after your hospital stay. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your doctor’s practices.

What is Supratentorial herniation?

Supratentorial refers to herniation of structures normally found above the tentorial notch, and infratentorial refers to structures normally found below it.

What is trephine syndrome?

Introduction: The “Motor Trephine Syndrome (MTS)” also known as the “Sunken brain and Scalp Flap Syndrome” or the “Sinking Skin Flap Syndrome (SSFS)” or the “Syndrome of the trephined” is an unusual syndrome in which neurological deterioration occurs following removal of a large skull bone flap.

Why do I look gaunt?

A gaunt face may be caused by the natural aging process, or it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Your face naturally loses volume as you age. Regular sun exposure without sunscreen and poor dietary habits can speed up skin aging.

What is sinking skin flap syndrome ( SSF )?

Background and Purpose— “Sinking skin flap” (SSF) syndrome is a rare complication after large craniectomy that may progress to “paradoxical” herniation as a consequence of atmospheric pressure exceeding intracranial pressure.

Why do I have a sunken skin flap?

Plan is for an outpatient cranioplasty. Sinking skin flap syndrome is a delayed complication of a decompressive craniectomy. As the herniated brain tissue recedes, the skin flap from the surgical site can become sunken.

What happens if you leave sinking flap syndrome untreated?

The sinking flap syndrome (SFS) is one of the complications of decompressive craniectomy (DC). Although frequently presenting with aspecific symptoms, that may be underestimated, it can lead to severe and progressive neurological deterioration and, if left untreated, even to death. We report our exp …

What causes sinking skin flap after a craniectomy?

Sinking skin flap syndrome, often called as the “syndrome of trephined,” is a rare complication after a large craniectomy. The procedure is thought to convert cranium from a closed to an open box, hence altering the basic pathophysiology.