Neurosurgery or brain surgery refers to any procedure that addresses abnormalities in one’s brain or surrounding structures. Brain surgery includes several different types of surgical intervention that may be performed to treat strokes, brain bleeds, aneurysms, tumors, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other serious medical problems. As an integral part of the central nervous system, the brain is a highly complex organ that controls every process involved in regulating one’s body, including one’s thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger, and more. The Cleveland Clinic asserts that “brain surgery aims to treat problems without disrupting these important functions.” Brain surgery recovery is a gradual process, and factors such as the type of brain surgery, the occurrence of any complications during the procedure, as well as the area of the brain that was operated on will all contribute to the length of time it takes an individual to recover. Brain surgery is different for each person, and everyone recovers differently after brain surgery.
What To Expect
Although the length of time will be distinct for everyone, after brain surgery a patient is typically required to stay in the hospital to be monitored and undergo post-operation assessments (e.g., frequent testing of responses and blood flow). The length of one’s stay in the hospital is variable. Depending on the overall patient health and the determination of the risk of subsequent complications by the treating physicians, a patient may be discharged within 2-3 days after a minimally invasive brain operation. After a major procedure like a craniotomy, an individual may be required to spend up to 10 days or longer in the hospital. As is true with any surgery, neurosurgery comes with certain risks and the possibility of unwanted short and long-term side effects. Common side effects that can occur immediately after surgery may include but are not limited to the following examples:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Aphasia (difficulty speaking)
- Brain swelling
- Confusion or delirium
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Movement or balance problems
Examples of long-term risks after brain surgery may include but are not limited to the following:
- Behavior changes
- Brain damage
- Difficulty walking
- Memory loss
- Problems with speech
- Weakness in arms or legs
Despite much progress made in terms of safety and precision, there are potential adverse side effects that can occur because of brain surgery. However, with the development of newer, less invasive procedures that have become widely available, the risks of complications associated with neurosurgery have been greatly reduced.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long-lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment-related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
