What exactly happens before, during and after a Craniotomy?

@gkeating
Saw your question about mental recovery and activity post craniotomy. Im almost 10 weeks post op, also feel fine. I wad able to walk a lot post op, first few nights w help just to be safe. I missed my long walks w my dog but did walk him outside for short block or two. Right away after getting home I felt fine and could do usual kitchen activities, could do stairs independently but was very mindful to use railings etc just to be extra cautious. After receiving OT and PT Ive finally returned to my usual dog walks and stationary bike rides. My care team said no strenuous activity for 6-8 weeks, which I followed even though I felt good- part of that is to avoid intracranial pressure, so its good to check activities you're wanting to do w your surgeons office just to be safe. For example- no forward bends in yoga for me even though I felt absolutely able to do this. Mental recovery was harder at first cuz I missed my routine but staying busy w walks, OT & PT& playing luminosity on my phone , for example, helped a lot. Hope this helps! Im still on my seizure meds, same dose as before craniotomy. Best Wishes!!🙏☘️👍

@mary963, how are you doing?

@lindasoheila I have had a regrowth of my original tumor after 5 years. My radiologist has been very supportive. Now after a referral to a surgeon I feel like a number . It seems it is the only choice but I am wondering if other means exist since I am just repeating the process.

@scottdemauex did you have craniotomy or cyberknife? What location?

@as72 I did have a craniotomy . Post that it was found I had a small regrowth. I was treated with Cyberknife . I have gone 5 years with no issues. I was checked with my last MRI and it showed new growth of the original tumor. They are recommending surgery vs radiation. I am trying to see if there are other options for treatment.

@scottdemauex
How did the first craniotomy go? Any complications? I have been diagnosed a few months ago just waiting to see next MRI in March to see if it’s grown. When I had consultation with both neurosurgeons from Stanford and UCSF said they think the could get it all and wouldn’t need radiation. I understand each person and tumor is different

@as72 The first one went well . I did have a complication after and had to have a drain put in to get rid of blood . I feel they pulled my post op drain too soon . Then I had an other pop up and had Cyberknife.
I have gone 5 years but now having regrowth . I am looking at further surgery. As you say they are all different.

@scottdemauex did they get it all on the first craniotomy? The neurosurgeon said he thinks he could get it all and will not need radiation. Just wondering why it grew back. Where did you have the craniotomy?

@as72 The surgery was here in my town and performed by a wel know surgeon. I was told they got it all . The problem with is it is not an exact science. Then the other popped in addition. This is also possible as in my case . I have not had further issue there after the radiation treatment. I thought this was behind me . Now the regrowth is going to require further action. It appears it will be surgery. I am trying to explore all options first .

@as72 sorry ment to reply sooner . The first operation went well . They felt they had gotten it all . I did not have radiation following that until another popped up . I thought it was now all good . I am now working on what I need to do now . Look for further opinions.