Post-Surgery Recovery Concerns After Brain Hemorrhage: What to Expect

What are the recovery issues after brain hemorrhage surgery?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my mother, who is 64 years old.
At the beginning of the month, she suffered a hemorrhagic stroke and was taken to the hospital, where surgery was required.
The surgery went smoothly, and it has been 12 days since then.
She woke up around the 3rd to 4th day, but her waking moments are brief, and she mostly sleeps.
My mother cannot move the left side of her body, while the right side moves involuntarily.
She can open her eyes but cannot speak and does not recognize family members.
I would like to know if her inability to recognize family members indicates damage to her memory.
Will she recover from this? When we talk to her, she occasionally nods, but it feels like she is just following commands and does not truly recognize who we are.
When we asked the doctor, he only mentioned that her brain needs time to heal, but we are still confused and unsure if she will get better.
If so, how long might it take? Additionally, I would like to ask another question: my mother has been in a regular ward for three days now.
When can we expect her to be scheduled for rehabilitation appointments to start her therapy? Currently, she is only being turned in bed, and I am very concerned that delaying rehabilitation will make it harder for her to recover later on.

Xiao Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/14

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Based on your description, the patient may not have fully regained consciousness yet.
Since each patient's condition varies, it is advisable to consult your attending physician.

Reply Date: 2021/03/14

More Info

Post-surgery recovery after a brain hemorrhage can be a complex and challenging journey, both for the patient and their family. Your mother’s situation, having undergone surgery for a brain hemorrhage and now experiencing limited consciousness and mobility, is not uncommon. It’s important to understand the various factors that can influence recovery and the potential for rehabilitation.

Firstly, the fact that your mother has been waking up intermittently is a positive sign. Recovery from brain injuries, particularly those involving hemorrhages, can vary significantly from person to person. The brain is a highly intricate organ, and its healing process can be unpredictable. The duration of unconsciousness or altered consciousness can depend on the extent of the injury, the specific areas of the brain affected, and individual health factors.
Regarding your question about your mother not recognizing family members, this could indeed be related to memory impairment caused by the injury. The brain regions responsible for memory and recognition can be affected by hemorrhages, leading to difficulties in recalling familiar faces and names. This condition is often referred to as post-traumatic amnesia, and while it can be distressing, many patients do show improvement over time. The timeline for recovery can vary widely; some may regain recognition within weeks, while others may take months or longer. Continuous stimulation and interaction can aid in recovery, so it’s beneficial to talk to her regularly and engage her in familiar activities.

As for rehabilitation, it is crucial to initiate therapy as soon as the patient is stable enough to participate. Early rehabilitation can significantly enhance recovery outcomes. Typically, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are integral parts of the rehabilitation process. These therapies can help improve mobility, daily functioning, and communication skills. If your mother has already been transferred to a regular ward, it is a good sign that she is stable, and discussions about rehabilitation should be initiated promptly. You may want to advocate for a rehabilitation assessment if it hasn’t been scheduled yet.
In terms of the timeline for rehabilitation, it can vary based on the patient’s condition and the healthcare facility’s protocols. Generally, rehabilitation can begin as soon as the patient is medically stable, which can be within days to weeks post-surgery. The goal is to maximize recovery potential, and delaying rehabilitation can sometimes lead to poorer outcomes.

Lastly, it’s essential to maintain open communication with the healthcare team. They can provide insights into your mother’s specific condition and recovery potential. Asking about the rehabilitation plan, expected timelines, and any concerns you have can help you feel more informed and involved in her care.

In conclusion, while the road to recovery after a brain hemorrhage can be long and uncertain, many patients do experience significant improvements over time. Engaging in rehabilitation as soon as possible, maintaining communication with healthcare providers, and providing emotional support to your mother can all contribute positively to her recovery journey.

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