15 October 2025
Our new position paper delves into this complex area of speech and language practice
The RCSLT is pleased to announce the publication of our new guidance on Awake craniotomy. Our first bespoke guidance on this area, the new paper explains the role of the SLT during all stages of the procedure and has been co-produced by people with lived experience of awake craniotomy. We’d like to thank them for their contributions to the project, which have been invaluable part in building the new guidance.
In addition to the position paper, we have also created new public guidance (which can be used by members to refer service users to) and have a list of supporting resources for anyone keen to find out more on the topic.
The guidance compliments existing guidance around aphasia, motor speech disorders and AAC.
Why was this guidance developed now?
Although awake craniotomy has been performed since the 1800’s, it is only within the last 40 years that SLTs have become a key member of the team, supporting surgeons to minimise the damage to language areas within the brain during operations.
There are few dedicated awake craniotomy SLT roles in the UK, and the new guidance has been developed to help increase understanding of this area of practice and ensure comprehensiveness of assessment and intervention in this area.
SLTs play a crucial part in awake craniotomies. The RCSLT has developed a position paper to outline the role of the SLT with supporting resources. This paper has been co-produced with people with lived experience of awake craniotomy.
Where can I find the new guidance?
The Position paper and resources list can be found in our Clinical guidance area for members and medical professionals.
If you’re looking for or to point someone to more information about how SLTs can assist you or a loved one as part of an awake craniotomy care team, visit our clinical information section of our website.
