After Your Brain Surgery

WOUND CARE

You may shower 24 hours after your surgery. Let soap and water run over the incision. DO NOT scrub it. Pat it dry.

You may continue to shower after your staples or sutures (“stitches”) are removed.

DO NOT submerge (tub bath or swim) your incision for 2 to 4 weeks.

When you shower you may need to have someone with you in the bathroom to ensure your safety.

You may wear a stockinette cap or clean scarf on your head.

ACTIVITY GUIDELINES

At the time of discharge you should be able to care for yourself, however, you should not perform household duties or care for others.

DO NOT bend or lift anything heavier than 5 pounds for at least 4 weeks (i.e. a thick phone book or jug of milk).

DO NOT drive until you are cleared to do so.

Gradually increase your activity until you reach your preoperative level. You may walk for exercise.

PAIN MEDICINE

If you are given a prescription for pain medication, take the medication only when needed and only for as long as you need it.

Pain medications containing a narcotic can cause constipation, drowsiness, or lightheadedness.

To prevent constipation, you may increase your water intake and increase the amount of fruit and fiber in your diet. If these measures do not help and you become constipated, you may use an over-the-counter stool softener (such as Colace), or a mild laxative (such as Milk of Magnesia).

Please note that many narcotic pain medications cannot be refilled over the telephone. If you need a refill on your pain medication, please contact your Family Physician first. If your Family Physician is unable to refill your prescription, you may call our office. This may require that you come to the office to pick up a prescription.

OTHER MEDICATIONS

Anticonvulsant medication

After brain surgery, some patients may need to take anticonvulsant medication to help prevent seizures. The drug that is most commonly prescribed is phenytoin (Dilantin). Side effects may include drowsiness, upset stomach, changes in vision, and/or rash. Notify your physician if you have any side effects. You may also need your blood drawn to make sure the drug level is in the right treatment range.

Steroid medication

After surgery, you may need to take a steroid medication (Decadron), which is used to decrease brain swelling. The medication will usually be tapered off after discharge. Side effects may include increased appetite, feelings of hyperactivity, increased anxiety and stomach ulcers.

Acid blockers

Since Decadron may increase your risk of stomach ulcers, you may need to take antacids or a medication such as Zantac or Pepcid to decrease stomach acid production.

SYMPTOMS TO REPORT TO YOUR PHYSICIAN

Any signs and symptoms of infection such as fever of 101 degrees or higher, redness or swelling of incision, increased pain, or wound drainage.

Changes in mental function such as confusion, restlessness, or drowsiness.

New or increased weakness of the arms/legs, and/or difficulty speaking or walking.

Persistent or severe headache, extreme stiffness in your neck, changes in your vision or seizures.

Voiding (urinating) large amounts of dilute urine (your urine may appear colorless, like water) and you are very thirsty.

Calf tenderness and/or calf swelling.

HELPFUL LINKS

American Brain Tumor Association

National Brain Tumor Foundation

HOW TO CONTACT US

If you have any problems or questions call the office at 717-920-7664.

You may send an e-mail if you wish to info@pnni.org. Please specify which physician you are seeing.

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT

If you need to schedule a follow-up appointment or have questions about your appointment, please call 717-920-7664.