About Bone Flap Replacement
Key Highlights
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Restores the skull's protective barrier for the developing brain.Supports normal cranial growth and head shape in growing children.Can improve neurological function and cosmetic appearance.Often utilizes the child's own bone (autograft) for better integration.Performed by specialized pediatric orthopedic and neurosurgical teams.
Who is this surgery for?
- Following a decompressive craniectomy for severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Correction of cranial defects from previous surgery for craniosynostosis.
- Repair of skull defects due to infection (osteomyelitis) or tumor removal.
- Treatment of congenital skull abnormalities or syndromes.
- To alleviate "syndrome of the trephined," which includes symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues related to the skull defect.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including detailed CT or MRI scans of the skull.
- Creation of a 3D model or custom implant based on the imaging, if needed.
- Review of the child's full medical history and any prior neurological issues.
- Pre-operative blood tests and a physical exam to ensure fitness for anesthesia.
- Discussion with the family about the procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
- Fasting instructions as per hospital protocol for general anesthesia.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site or in the bone/implant.
- Bleeding (hematoma) or fluid collection under the scalp.
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Seizures or changes in neurological status.
- Implant displacement, failure, or resorption (if using the child's own bone).
- Persistent pain or headaches.
- Scarring or cosmetic dissatisfaction.
- Need for further revision surgery.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in the hospital for monitoring of neurological status and pain management.
- The head will be bandaged, and swelling is common for several days.
- Activity restrictions are critical: no contact sports, rough play, or activities risking head impact for an extended period.
- Pain is managed with prescribed medications.
- Follow-up appointments for wound check and imaging (like a CT scan) to assess healing and implant position.
- Gradual return to normal activities and school as approved by the surgical team.
- Long-term monitoring to ensure proper cranial growth and development.
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Typical hospital stay: 3-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks for initial healing; full recovery and bone integration may take 6-12 months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering bone flap replacement in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform bone flap replacement. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for bone flap replacement compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 250 Thousand – 600 Thousand | 3-7 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial healing; full recovery and bone integration may take 6-12 months | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 875 Thousand – 2.1 Million | 3-7 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial healing; full recovery and bone integration may take 6-12 months | Know More |
Amit Bhatia, a cheerful 8-year-old from...
Amit Bhatia, a cheerful 8-year-old from Mumbai, had always been an active child who loved cricket. His parents first noticed a slight limp and a subtle swelling near his right knee six months ago. Initially dismissed as a sports injury, the swelling persisted and was accompanied by a dull, aching pain that worsened at night. X-rays revealed a benign but aggressive osteoid osteoma in his distal femur, a bone tumor that was eroding the cortical bone. Dr. Sharma, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, explained that a bone flap replacement was necessary. The procedure would involve removing the diseased segment of bone and replacing it with a healthy bone graft from Amit's own iliac crest (autograft) to restore structural integrity and allow for natural bone healing. The surgery was long, but successful. Amit spent two days in the hospital, initially frustrated by the cast and crutches. The first few weeks were challenging, with pain management and mobility restrictions. However, within three months, follow-up scans showed excellent graft incorporation. After six months of dedicated physiotherapy, Amit was cleared to return to light play. His emotional journey was a rollercoaster, from fear of the hospital and surgery to impatience during recovery. The moment he took his first unaided steps and later gently tossed a cricket ball, his smile returned, replaced by a profound sense of resilience and gratitude from his family.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Bone Flap Replacement
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform bone flap replacement and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata