ABSTRACT

Objectives:

The shape and localization of the scalp incision are the factors that affect surgical outcome. With the help of developing technology, it is aimed to decrease the size of incisions and decrease the morbidity. The ideal shape and length of the incision should not disrupt the scalp feeding and provide the best possible wound healing, but also have to provide adequate control of the surgical field. In our study, we aimed to observe the effects of linear scalp incision on patients’ surgical comfort and wound healing.

Materials and Methods:

In our retrospective study, we evaluated linear scalp incision in 26 patients with supratentorial cortical-subcortical tumors between 2017 and 2018. Tumor location was determined by neuronavigation and linear incision lines were planned pre-operatively in all patients.

Results:

The size of superficially located tumors was equal or less than 5 cm. The average length of incision was 9.2 cm and was parallel to the coronal suture. No difficulties were seen in reaching the lesion in terms of incision length or location. There was no significant morbidity and mortality in the postoperative period, except of patients which were temporary paresis. No complications were seen in wound healing. Silk sutures were taken on average for 7.4 days. Thirty four of the thirty two patients were discharged on the 3^rd postoperative day.

Conclusion:

A linear incision can be applied as an alternative to other incisions in superficially localized and to adequate size (≤5 cm) supratentorial region tumors which were determined with neuronavigation.