Hi @Phoenix
So I can give you some info on my own experience with craniotomy. Mine was performed June 2022 @ Cleveland Clinic. These Hospitals (meaning the size and specialties) are like Factories, they perform so many operations and cares all the time. That is good to know.
The day prior to my surgery I had an MRI and angiogram so the Medical team could map out everything, all the process. These two procedures took time, but I was aware that they needed all the information they could have prior to surgery. In a small sense I welcomed all this exams before.
The night before surgery we stayed @ a Hotel within the hospital, because I needed to arrive at pre surgical administration @ 6 am. Surprisingly the night before I slept ok, I think I was @ peace with my decision and the process.
I was with my wife ‘till like 7:30 am, and then was taken to surgery clinic and was greeted by 2 anesthesiologists and then the rest of the surgery team. About 7 drs in my case, including my neurosurgeon Dr Bain. I was asked general questions about what would go through and then with their care it begun.
I woken up in the recovery room about 7-8 hrs later. No pain, tired, still very drowsy. And immediately asked to see my wife. I could move my body, and talk. And the most impressive memory I have is just as Dr Bain had said: “when you wake up, you don’t have it anymore”. Relief.
Of course recovery took time, plenty of physical therapy. And very great full to be here. I stayed 4 days at the hospital, 2 different ICU rooms as you recover. Their goal is to have you there as less days as possible. Keep your blood pressure low.
It is completely normal to feel nervous, it will pass. I went for some walks, read, prayed, and took one day at a time.
I hope this information helps, and truly wish you the best as you deal with you AVM.
Francisco