Understanding what to expect before and after pediatric brain surgery can help put your mind at ease. By knowing the process involved, you will know what to expect and can prepare for the procedure and subsequent recovery. We can provide insight on the specific treatments necessary and what you should expect based on your child's specific situation. In the meantime, here is basic information about the surgery and what to expect from it.
About pediatric brain surgery
Having a tumor in the brain can cause many issues with the way a person moves, talks, thinks, remembers, sees or even feels. The brain is the central hub that controls almost everything inside the body. When the tumor is pushing or growing into one of the areas of the brain, it affects the specific function that area is responsible for. To stop this, the tumor will need to be operated on and removed.
Brain tumor removal surgery
There are two types of common brain surgeries used to remove brain tumors: craniotomy and craniectomy. With both surgeries, the skin, muscle and bone have to be removed so the surgeon can access the brain and locate the tumor. The tumor is then removed, and depending on the type of surgery, the head is closed and covered until it is completely healed.
#1. Craniotomy
The bone flap in the skull is replaced and put back in the normal position. Closure is done and the procedure is completed.
#2. Craniectomy
Usually when there is too much pressure on the brain, the bone has a tumor on it, or the brain needs additional room to swell and heal, the bone flap is not put back on. The bone is left out, and the head is closed without the bone and bandaged.
Before the pediatric brain surgery
Before surgery, the child will have a complete medical history and exam done to check their health status and rule out any complications. If there are questions, the staff can answer them during this time. Any allergies or medications that the child has should be discussed before surgery.
If you are bringing your child from out of town to have the pediatric brain surgery performed, there are many places that work with hospitals for accommodations. The child will need to get a full night's sleep and stop eating or drinking after a certain point the day before. The surgical team can let you know what time this is. The child should wear loose-fitting clothing and no jewelry, makeup or other accessories.
After surgery
Patients are taken to the PACU once surgery has concluded. This is where the patient wakes up from surgery and speaks to their family. Once their vitals are stabilized, patients are transferred to the PICU to be monitored overnight. If all is well here, patients are brought to the pediatric unit to finish their recovery period, which is generally no more than a week. Follow all care instructions given by your surgeon after pediatric brain surgery for the best outcome.
We can answer specific questions
Each child is unique and so is their healthcare plan. While this information can be used as a guide, it is best to sit down and have a discussion about their specific case and what will be involved in their surgery. To do so, call (714) 677-9463 today to reach Dr. William G. Loudon, Pediatric Neurosurgery.