Potential Risk Analysis and Experience Summarization of Unstable Factors of Cranial Fixation Devices in Neurosurgical Operations

BACKGROUND The use of cerebral fixation devices in neurosurgery is very common, which is considered to be an important auxiliary method for many craniotomies. However, previous studies have reported complications of using cerebral fixation devices. Some of the complications are serious and even potentially fatal, and the causes of which may be related to incorrect use of cranial fixation devices. Although there are no serious complications, the cause of that needs to be further summarized and analyzed, as so to minimize the serious consequences caused by the cerebral fixation devices slippage and ensure the safety of the patients’ surgical procedure. METHODS In our recent work, we have continuously found three cases of unstable cerebral fixation devices, which allowed us to analysis the possible factors and summarize experience combined with the review of other senior neurosurgeons from different departments of neurosurgery. RESULTS Based on our recent unstable cranial fixation incidents and the experience of investigating and analyzing senior doctors from different neurosurgery centers, we conducted experience analysis and summary to minimize the risk of unstable cranial fixation pins. We tried a variety of options, including a safe anatomical location for cranial fixation, teamwork and communication with anesthesiologists and itinerant nurses to ensure the stability of the patient’s cerebral fixation devices. CONCLUSIONS The data obtained in this survey has great limitations, including the doctor’s personal prejudice and dependence on anecdotal memories. Therefore, the data should be interpreted with caution. Despite these limitations, there are still some modes that can help to better understand the use of safe skull fixation. Based on the above research and analysis, we have made recommendations that may help avoid preventable complications