Are you scheduled for brain surgery? If so, then your neurosurgeon will likely explain what to expect before the surgery. However, because everyone who needs a brain operation is there for very different reasons and the outcomes may be unknowable, the doctor may not really explain what to expect afterward.
One thing that is true of everyone who has brain surgery is that they need considerable time to recuperate. The nurses will start talking to you as soon as you awake from your surgery in order to stimulate your brain as quickly as possible, but it will likely take at least two weeks or more before you will be able to return to your normal activities and capabilities.
The length of time this will take largely depends on the severity and size of your brain tumor, the location of the tumor, your age, and your overall health.
After Brain Surgery
Brain surgery is no small procedure, so expect to stay in the hospital for a few days until your doctor clears you to be sent home. Early on, you are still under observation by the doctor and nurses. If you suffer any complications, your stay will be longer.
A team of medical professionals trained in critical care of neurology patients will provide intensive care and full-time monitoring to you in the neurosurgery unit while you recover. Only two or three people are likely to be allowed to see you at any given time while in this special ICU, and they are not allowed to be boisterous or noisy while there.
A key part of your post-op recovery involves rehabilitation therapy. You may first be sent to a special rehabilitation center, and you will then be sent home where physical therapists continue to visit you at home several times per week while you recover fully.
Rehabilitation Therapy
Common side effects of brain surgery are confusion, emotional changes, and behavioral changes – which are all usually temporary. Brain surgery patients may also have mobility issues, especially at first.
Rehabilitation therefore includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Therapists may begin working with you even while you’re still in the hospital.
Physical Therapy
First, physical therapists will observe whether you can safely get out of bed. If you can get out of bed, the therapist will assist you in re-learning how to safely walk, climb stairs, and get in and out of a car. Regardless of your capability, the physical therapist will guide you in exercises to help you regain your strength and improve your physical movements.
Occupational Therapy
Next, occupational therapists will assess your vision, thinking skills, hand movements, and performance of daily activities. They will determine your ability to drive again or whether you can return to work.
Speech Therapy
Then, the speech and language pathologists will observe whether the surgery has affected your speech. This therapist will evaluate what you can verbalize, and they will help you re-learn how to connect words with objects and concepts.
Brain Surgeon in Colorado
Our brain surgeons at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery specialize in the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of spine tumors and brain tumors. Our surgeons are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of brain conditions, from complex brain tumors and cancers to cranial cavity and cranial circulatory disorders.
If you have any questions about our neurological services, please call our friendly staff at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery today at (303) 790-1800 or request an appointment now online now. We are here to help you return to normal and get you back to living the life you love.
