4 weeks post craniotomy

AVM free!!!! 4 weeks post op today!! Thank God!! So far, so good. Craniotomy was Thursday April 28th 2016. Removal of AVM in the right occipital lobe. Surgery took 7.5 hours. NICU for 48 hours, then "step-down neuro floor" for 4 more days. I only had one really bad day while in the hospital, due to lack of sleep. Rest, rest, rest!!! The first week at home was rough but I had 24 hour care (that was the absolute BEST idea!!). Every day seems to be better than the day before. Staples were removed 2 weeks after surgery. I didn't feel a thing. Still improving, Thank God!! My vision seems to be on hold. I'm hoping it continues to improve. I'm down to one pain pill at bedtime and regular Tylenol throughout the day. Keppra twice a day (seizure prevention). I am anxiously awaiting an appointment to follow-up with my surgeon!!

I had the privilege of being cared for and treated by Dr. Ali Krisht at CHI St Vincent Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. He and all of his attending physicians were outstanding! The nursing staff, and medical care I received in general, at the hospital were amazing and everyone went completely out of the way to make my time there as pleasant and absolutely comfortable as possible!!

I hope the information I have written will help someone in some way. I have read so many helpful stories here. Thank you.

If anyone has any helpful hints for me, please fill me in. Vision? Strength? Fatigue? Incision care? Etc.

I had a right occipital am rupture so my vision was already compromised before my craniotomy. Fatigue is a big issue so get your rest. I took 3 naps a day the first month. I used baby shampoo to wash my head as its milder and easier on the incisions. Don't fatigue your brain with to much stimulation, TV, lights, sounds. Rest and let it heal.

That’s great news I’m so happy to read another successful story on an AVM survivor… God bless!

Hi! Was your AVM deep on your brain?

Congratulations!!! What a blessing! My son is post op day 2 crani and doing really well. He gets to go home tomorrow! His vision too is a little off but the doctor believes that will improve with time. I’m so happy to read your story! You’re a warrior! :slight_smile:
God bless!
Ginger