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What Causes Swelling Below Scalp Following Cranioplasty?

Posted on Fri, 30 Jan 2015

Question: I had a cranioplasty 7 weeks ago and have noticed a build up of fluid between the plate and the scalp. It is most noticeable first thing in the morning after sleep, but gradually goes throughout the day & forms a kind of lump by my ear. Although it comes back whilst I'm at work due to dropping my head to write/use the computer. Any ideas??

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Swelling is because of accumulation of the transudates...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query. I do understand your concern, I will try my best to help you with this.

Swelling below the scalp following surgery is common. This is due to presence of loose tissue around the grafted area which allows the accumulation of the transudates from the venous blood and the secretions from the operated site. This happens mostly in the dependent part (that is towards the gravity).

The accumulation of the secretions and venous blood decreases when the scalp heals with fibrosis and adheres to the graft site. That is the reason the surgeons were not really concerned about your complaint.

No medicines are required unless the swelling is associated with pain or headache.

Hope I have answered the query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 hours later)

Okay, that's helpful. I have been sleeping with 3 pillows 'stacked up', which appears to reduce the build up of the fluid (i.e. It just stays down by my ear more and doesn't move to my forehead as much). Is this a good idea or should I be sleeping flat & letting the fluid move about??

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Better to sleep in the semi-reclined position...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

Sleeping with the head end raised can reduce the pressure exerted on the wound site and thus avoids accumulation of secretions.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. I wish you good health and speedy recovery.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju