What is the surgical procedure called that involves an incision into the skull to relieve pressure or control bleeding?

The surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the skull to relieve pressure or control bleeding is known as a craniotomy. This procedure is usually performed when there is a medical condition such as a brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, or hemorrhage that necessitates access to the brain for treatment. During a craniotomy, a portion of the skull is temporarily removed, allowing surgeons to address the underlying issue directly.

In contrast, a craniectomy involves the permanent removal of a portion of the skull, often performed to treat conditions that may cause significant swelling of the brain. Neurosurgery is a broader term that refers to any surgical procedure involving the nervous system, but it does not specify the method of accessing the skull. A cranioplasty refers to the surgical repair of the skull, typically after a craniectomy, where the removed bone is replaced or a prosthesis is used.