Post-Surgery Recovery After Brain Surgery: Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Post-Surgery Recovery After Brain Surgery: Symptoms and Concerns

Hello： I'm not sure if the patient you mentioned belongs to the elderly population, but when there is a change in consciousness in the intensive care unit, delirium should be considered. <br>This is an acute confusional state that commonly occurs in hospitalized patients aged 65

Postoperative care after brain surgery?

The brain sustained a concussion, and the occipital bone was removed due to intracranial hemorrhage with injury to the cerebellum.
Other than that, there was a fracture of the big toe.
The patient was conscious before surgery and was transferred out of the intensive care unit afterward.
Initially, there was confusion between dreams and reality (it has been said that lying down for too long can cause this, but it can recover).
Later, the patient experienced a total of three fevers.
After the first fever, the patient was able to use a walker to go to the bathroom.
Starting from the second fever, the patient reported a lack of sensation when needing to use the restroom.
Today, the fever reached 39 degrees Celsius and has not subsided.
An examination has been conducted (the report is not yet available).
Previously, a friend mentioned that recovery is possible (based on a relative's experience).
I would like to inquire if there are similar symptoms.

Ava, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: I'm not sure if the patient you mentioned belongs to the elderly population, but when there is a change in consciousness in the intensive care unit, delirium should be considered.
This is an acute confusional state that commonly occurs in hospitalized patients aged 65 and older, particularly in those with a history of heavy substance or alcohol use, or in patients with brain injuries or neurological conditions such as dementia.
Regarding the cause of fever, in patients with brain injuries, in addition to infection, one must also consider the possibility that the hypothalamus, which regulates fever, may be affected.
Recovery from brain injury requires time and patience, and rehabilitation is essential for achieving the best outcomes.
Keep it up! I recommend discussing examinations and treatments with your attending physician.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology, is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2017/04/10

More Info

Post-surgery recovery after brain surgery can be a complex and multifaceted process, particularly when there are complications such as intracranial bleeding and injuries to specific brain regions. The symptoms you describe, including confusion between dreams and reality, fever, and changes in sensation, are not uncommon in patients recovering from brain surgery.

Common Symptoms After Brain Surgery
1. Cognitive Changes: It is common for patients to experience confusion, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating after brain surgery. This can be exacerbated by factors such as medication, anesthesia effects, and the body's natural healing processes. The brain is a highly complex organ, and any surgical intervention can lead to temporary or, in some cases, long-lasting cognitive changes.

2. Physical Symptoms: Patients may experience weakness, coordination issues, or sensory changes. The fact that the patient has a broken toe may also contribute to mobility issues. The use of crutches indicates that the patient is still in the recovery phase and may need physical therapy to regain strength and coordination.

3. Fever: The presence of fever post-surgery can be concerning. It may indicate an infection, which is a risk after any surgical procedure, especially one involving the brain. The fever could also be a response to inflammation or other postoperative complications. Continuous monitoring and appropriate medical evaluation are crucial to determine the cause of the fever.

4. Emotional and Psychological Effects: Patients may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression following brain surgery. These emotional responses can be due to the stress of the surgery, the effects of anesthesia, or changes in brain function.

Recovery Timeline and Expectations
Recovery from brain surgery varies widely among individuals and depends on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, the patient's overall health, and the presence of any complications. While some patients may experience a relatively quick recovery, others may take weeks or months to regain their previous level of function.

1. Initial Recovery: The first few days to weeks post-surgery are critical. Patients may be monitored in an intensive care unit (ICU) or a step-down unit to ensure stability. During this time, medical staff will assess neurological function and manage any complications.

2. Rehabilitation: Once stable, patients typically transition to rehabilitation, which may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, depending on their needs. Early intervention in rehabilitation can significantly improve outcomes.

3. Long-term Recovery: Many patients continue to see improvements in cognitive and physical function for months after surgery. However, some may experience persistent deficits, and ongoing therapy may be necessary.

Recommendations for Support
1. Regular Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the patient's symptoms, especially the fever. If the fever persists or worsens, further medical evaluation is warranted to rule out infections or other complications.

2. Engagement in Rehabilitation: Encourage participation in rehabilitation programs. These programs are tailored to help patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

3. Emotional Support: Provide emotional support and understanding. Recovery can be frustrating, and patients may need reassurance and encouragement.

4. Communication with Healthcare Providers: Maintain open lines of communication with the healthcare team. Ask questions about the recovery process, potential complications, and what to expect moving forward.

5. Educate Yourself: Understanding the recovery process can help you manage expectations and provide better support for the patient. Resources such as support groups or educational materials from healthcare providers can be beneficial.

In conclusion, while the recovery process after brain surgery can be challenging and unpredictable, many patients do experience significant improvements over time. It is essential to remain vigilant about symptoms, engage in rehabilitation, and maintain open communication with healthcare providers to optimize recovery outcomes.

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