Final answer:
Dr. Ben Carson told Craig and Susan he could not open the pons during surgery because of the vital functions it controls and the significant risk of life-threatening complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story, Dr. Ben Carson advised Craig and Susan that he could not open the pons during Craig's surgery due to the high risks involved. The pons is a critical structure located at the brainstem, and it contains many important nerve fibers responsible for various bodily functions, such as breathing, communication between different parts of the brain, and sensations. Surgery in this area could lead to severe and life-threatening complications.
Dr. Carson's commitment to patient safety and his understanding of neurosurgery led him to make this difficult decision. He recognized that doing so could have potentially catastrophic consequences for Craig. As a neurosurgeon, Dr. Carson was known for his innovative procedures, but he also knew when a surgical approach was not advisable due to the risks outweighing the potential benefits.