Burr Hole Procedure

If you are needing a burr hole procedure please Schedule an appointment with one of our Neurosurgeons as soon as possible.

Burr Hole Procedure

The burr hole procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique that treats several conditions affecting the brain. By creating a small opening in the skull, neurosurgeons can access the brain to relieve pressure, drain fluid, or implant medical devices. This approach is both safe and effective, offering faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

What Is a Burr Hole?

A burr hole is a small, round opening in the skull created with a surgical drill. Through this hole, surgeons can perform a variety of tasks without needing a large incision. As a result, patients experience fewer complications and shorter recovery times.

Neurosurgeons often use burr holes to treat or manage:

  • Chronic subdural hematomas (bleeding between the brain and skull)

  • Hydrocephalus (excess fluid in the brain)

  • Brain abscesses

  • Elevated intracranial pressure

  • Placement of deep brain stimulators or shunts

When Is It Needed?

Patients typically need a burr hole procedure when brain pressure increases or when quick access to the brain is essential. For example, traumatic head injuries often lead to bleeding or swelling that demands urgent intervention.

Additionally, this procedure benefits individuals with:

  • Persistent headaches

  • Seizures

  • Sudden confusion

  • Weakness or difficulty speaking

  • Brain infections or tumors that require drainage or biopsy

By addressing these symptoms early, neurosurgeons can prevent lasting damage and improve outcomes.

How the Procedure Works

Surgeons begin by administering either local or general anesthesia, depending on the case. Then, they make a small incision in the scalp and drill a hole about 1 to 2 centimeters wide into the skull. Through this opening, the surgeon can insert tools to:

  • Drain fluid or blood

  • Place a catheter or shunt

  • Monitor brain pressure

  • Implant neurostimulators or other devices

Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples. Because the bone remains intact, healing tends to occur faster, and the risk of complications remains low.

Benefits of Burr Hole Surgery

Compared to more invasive procedures, the burr hole technique offers several key advantages:

  • Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions result in less trauma and faster recovery.

  • Shorter hospital stays: Many patients go home within a few days.

  • Lower risk: There’s a reduced chance of infection and other complications.

  • Immediate symptom relief: Drainage quickly reduces pressure on the brain.

These benefits make the procedure ideal for both emergency and planned neurosurgical care.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery usually begins within hours after the procedure. Most patients feel noticeable relief shortly after surgery. While some may require monitoring in the hospital, others can resume light activities within a few days.

Follow-up care often includes:

  • Imaging to confirm proper drainage or device placement

  • Medications to manage pain or prevent infection

  • Rehabilitation therapy, if needed, to support full recovery

Each recovery plan is personalized based on the patient’s condition and response to surgery.

 

If you would like to speak to a Neurosurgeon, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.