What to Expect After Brain Surgery

Brain surgery---or neurosurgery---is performed to remove tumors or treat abnormal bleeding, blood clots, blood vessel weaknesses or abnormalities (such as a brain aneurysm), brain infections or damage to the dura, the tissue covering and protecting your brain.

Risks

• Prior to surgery, your doctor will discuss its potential risks, such as problems with balance, coordination, speech, vision, memory or muscle function---depending on the area of your brain being operated upon.

Post-Op Procedure

• After surgery, you will be moved to the intensive care unit (ICU) to be monitored. Expect to be asked multiple questions, perform relatively simple tasks and have a light shined in your eyes to evaluate your brain function.

Time Frame

• According to MedlinePlus.com, the average hospital stay is three days to one week. Physical therapy may start while you are in the hospital and/or after you go home.

Aftereffects

• Post-surgery effects include headaches, itching and numbness along your incision, fatigue, depression and short-term memory loss. You may need to take additional medications, such as an anticonvulsant to prevent seizures or a steroid to reduce swelling.

Expert Insight

• Expect to feel fear from time to time after your surgery. According to the University of West Georgia Aneurysm and AVM Support Center, experiencing a twinge or headache may spark the fear that the condition requiring your neurosurgery will recur. This is normal, and will lessen over time.