Cranial Neurosurgery without Hair Removal and Shampoo Care: Retrospective Analysis of 450 Cases

Goal: To assess infection rate in a population of children who underwent cranial neurosurgery without hair removal. Methods: Retrospective analysis of clinical records of children undergoing cranial neurosurgery with “shampoo care” during one year. Results: 450 children were included. 5.55% of them had a wound complication, with only two cases of infection (0.4%). Available literature was revised to assess the effectiveness of our protocol. Wound complication and infections rates found in our experience were lower than those reported in patients treated with a standard trichotomy. Conclusion: Cranial neurosurgery without hair removal and “shampoo care” is an effective method to reduce infection rates. This results in a shorter hospital stay, better self-esteem and improved quality of life when the child goes back to family life and school.