Brain Surgery - Can Their Be Risks?

Since a brain surgery aims to correct physical abnormalities in the brain, these can be due to a birth defect, external or internal injuries or even diseases. Brain surgery might be needed in case of conditions like a Brain Aneurysm, blood clots, Epilepsy, Abscesses, Parkinson's disease, nerve damage, skull fracture, stroke or brain tumours. Though all of these conditions do not need a surgery but may be helped if they pose serious threats to the victim. Follow the pre-op procedures as recommended by the surgeon.

The type of brain surgery depends primarily on the medical condition and area of the brain being treated. Craniotomy involves the making of an incision in the scalp to remove tumours, clip off an aneurysm and similar operations. Then there is minimally invasive endonasal endoscopic surgery to operate tumours on pituitary glands or the bottom parts of the brain by hacking through sinuses and noses. There are also other procedures such as Neuroendoscopy and Deep brain stimulation. The procedure performed will be based on the individual condition of the patient.

All surgical procedures pose some threat. Brain surgery is a major procedure and has high risks like a blood clot, impaired coordination, speech or vision, memory losses, stroke seizures and even coma. You should be careful after surgery and immediately call the doctor if there are signs of any unexpected symptoms. Keep track of your diet and medication so that you will be able to report if there is any issue.

Close monitoring is required after surgery. Recovery depends on the procedure applied. Pain medications will be supplied and the doctor will instruct you on how to care for the surgical wound if there is one. Therapists may be needed after the surgery to gradually bring you back to good health. Plan ahead and have assistance to observe your condition and take care of you. Adhering to the recommended post-operation care is crucial to achieving complete recovery.