Postcraniotomy Headache: Etiologies and Treatments

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Postcraniotomy headache (PCH) is a highly underappreciated and very common adverse event following craniotomy. RECENT FINDINGS: Analgetic medication with opioids often interferes with neurologic evaluation in the acute phase of recovery and should be kept to a minimal, in general, in the treatment of chronic pain as well. We provide an update on the latest evidence for the management of acute and chronic PCH. SUMMARY: Especially in the neurosurgical setting, enhanced recovery after surgery protocols need to include a special focus on pain control. Patients at risk of developing chronic pain must be identified and treated as early as possible.