Osteoma

An osteoma is a benign bony outgrowth on the skull bone. Usually, it is visible or palpable under the scalp. It is mostly stable and smooth to the touch. Over time, however, they may grow slowly or not at all. These bumps can appear individually or in different spots.

A CT scan must be performed to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that there is no underlying anomaly

Aim of the surgical procedure
The aim is usually to fully remove the osteoma in one go, to improve the appearance and to avoid any further growth. The surgical procedure for osteomas is mostly performed for treatment purposes.

The procedure
Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The scar is behind the hairline. The osteoma is identified on the bone surface and is removed using a drill or a cutting instrument.

Complications
There is a small risk of wound infection that may require a course of antibiotics.
On rare occasions, there is a small risk of bleeding in the space under the skull, in large osteomas.

After surgery
Patients usually get out of bed on the same day as the procedure and go home on the following day.
The sutures are removed one week after the procedure.