DYK it’s possible to stay awake during brain surgery? 🧠 An awake craniotomy is a specialized method of brain tumor surgery in which the patient remains awake and alert during surgery.

At Lexington Medical Center’s Brain Tumor Program, neurosurgeon Dr. Johnathan Engh treats patients from across the country using this modern surgical procedure.

During this type of surgery, patients are able to talk, move an extremity or name objects on a screen. The neurosurgeon tracks a patient’s motor function + speech in real time – something that is impossible during a traditional procedure where the patient is asleep.

Neurosurgeons can also track the patient’s neurologic state, which means they can remove brain tumors that would otherwise not be safely removable.

Brain surgery is an intimidating concept. However, for patients with brain tumors or other brain-related conditions, it can be life-saving.

As technology advances, surgeons are relying on specialized procedures, like awake craniotomies, that are still risky, but can lead to a better outcome + reduce the risk of injury to the brain.

Learn more about the impact of this surgery on local lives and the Lexington Medical Center Brain Tumor Program below. Ⓟ