How do you care for someone after a craniotomy?
wounD/suture care: You will probably be discharged with our sutures/staples still in place. You may shower or bathe within 24 hours after surgery, however do not get your incision(s) wet until 4 days after surgery. We recommend that you shower with someone in the bathroom to assist you.
How long does it take for a craniotomy incision to heal?
Most patients will require 6-12 weeks of healing before returning to previous activity levels. By one month out, you will have had at least one follow-up visit with your personal doctor, who will assess your recovery and make changes to your activity restrictions accordingly.
What position should a patient be in after a craniotomy?
The patient is usually anesthetized in the supine position, and is then turned prone on a chest rolls or on a special frame. The head should be kept in the neutral position.
What precautions should be taken after brain surgery?
Precautions to observe after brain surgery Deep breathing exercises are also a must to avoid developing lung infections. If you feel light-headed or tired after exercising, make sure that you get some rest, and decrease the amount of activity you are doing. You may need to increase your tolerance to exercise slowly.
What should you not do after a craniotomy?
Avoid risky activities, such as climbing a ladder, for 3 months after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for 3 months or until your doctor says it is okay. Do not play any rough or contact sports for 3 months or until your doctor says it is okay.
What procedure requires a craniotomy?
A craniotomy may be done for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, the following: Diagnosing, removing, or treating brain tumors. Clipping or repairing of an aneurysm. Removing blood or blood clots from a leaking blood vessel.
What are the complications of craniotomy?
Risks of the procedure
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
- Blood clots.
- Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
- Unstable blood pressure.
- Seizures.
- Muscle weakness.
- Brain swelling.
What is the most serious complication that can occur after a craniotomy?
No surgery is without risks. General complications of any surgery include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia. Specific complications related to a craniotomy may include stroke, seizures, swelling of the brain, nerve damage, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and loss of some mental functions.