surgery coming - expectations?

[torontoe1970]

I was just diagnosed with a pea sized meningioma or acoustic nueroma on my ear nerve. Surgery coming soon. What can I expect? risk factors? After surgery how "out of it" will I be and for how long? Anyone who can shed some light?

Thanks for whatever help you can give me

[lissa_k]

As a neuro nurse, I will respond as I do to all of my patients.  You should expect to spend at least a day or two in the ICU after your surgery.  After that, assuming all is going well, you'll probably go to a regular med-surg unit, probably one specializing in neuro patients.

Your display name states "toronto," so I am wondering if you are from Canada.  In the US, risk factors should be explained to you by your surgeon.  If you don't understand them, you should ask.  All of them should be listed on your surgical consent form.

Recovery time varies by your existing medical conditions and to how involved the surgery is.  Expect to have your head shaved.  A little swelling around the incision site is not abnormal, and the swelling should go down in a few days.  You will have a horrible headache, but your doctor should be able to prescribe some good pain meds for you.

Also, depending on the invasiveness of your procedure, you may receive physical or occupational therapy to aid you in recovery.

As for how long you'll be in the hospital, it can vary a lot, depending on the patient and the surgeon's preference.  Your doctor should be able to clarify that for you.

Hope that helps!

--lissa_k

[alchris]

Hi just read our post.  Can I ask what syptoms (symptoms) you have.  I was diagnosed with a pitutarty tumor that they wont touch about a half inch in size.  I know I have many symtoms but I have been to doctors telling me I cant possibly have any problems from it.  I would love to hear how you feel and how they determined surgery was required.  As for what to expect I would think the surgeon would tell you.  If I am not mistaken cant they go thru the nose instead of the head since its small.  take care