Our Summary

This research paper talks about the potential impact of general anesthesia on patients who have had a concussion. It discusses how surgeries, pain, and general anesthesia can affect the body’s automatic functions (like heart rate and breathing). It also explores how different anesthetics can alter the brain’s response to carbon dioxide. The researchers note that there have been some recent findings showing specific changes in these functions in patients after a concussion. However, they emphasize that more research is needed to fully understand these issues. This study aims to encourage further investigation into how concussions affect the body’s automatic functions and response to anesthesia, and what this might mean for patients needing surgery.

FAQs

  1. How can general anesthesia affect a patient who has had a concussion?
  2. What is the potential impact of different anesthetics on the brain’s response to carbon dioxide?
  3. Why is further research needed to understand how concussions affect the body’s automatic functions and response to anesthesia?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about brain surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines and medication restrictions. Proper preparation can help reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery. Additionally, it is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended brain surgery include those with:

  1. Brain tumors: Surgery may be necessary to remove tumors that are causing symptoms or are deemed to be malignant.

  2. Aneurysms: Surgery may be required to repair an aneurysm that is at risk of rupturing and causing a potentially life-threatening hemorrhage.

  3. Epilepsy: Surgery may be recommended for patients with epilepsy that is not well controlled with medication, in order to remove the area of the brain causing seizures.

  4. Traumatic brain injury: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove blood clots, repair skull fractures, or relieve pressure on the brain caused by swelling.

  5. Hydrocephalus: Surgery may be recommended to implant a shunt that helps drain excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to relieve pressure.

  6. Parkinson’s disease: Deep brain stimulation surgery may be recommended for patients with Parkinson’s disease who are not responding well to medication.

  7. Chiari malformation: Surgery may be necessary to decompress the area where the brain meets the spinal cord, relieving symptoms such as headaches and difficulty swallowing.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a neurosurgeon and other specialists to determine if brain surgery is the best course of action for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before brain surgery:

  1. Patient meets with neurosurgeon to discuss treatment options and surgical procedure.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing, such as MRI scans and blood work, to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Patient meets with an anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options and potential risks.
  4. Patient is admitted to the hospital the day before surgery and may undergo additional pre-operative procedures, such as shaving the area of the head where the surgery will take place.

After brain surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is closely monitored for any complications.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty with speech or movement in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient may be transferred to a specialized neurological unit for further monitoring and rehabilitation.
  4. Patient may undergo physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy to help regain lost function and improve overall quality of life.
  5. Patient may require ongoing follow-up appointments with their neurosurgeon to monitor their progress and address any lingering side effects or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of brain surgery is being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and benefits of the surgery?
  3. Are there any alternative treatment options available?
  4. What is the success rate for this type of surgery?
  5. What is the expected recovery time following the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery impact my cognitive function and overall brain health?
  7. Will I need to undergo general anesthesia for the surgery?
  8. How will the anesthesia affect my brain, especially considering my history of concussion?
  9. Are there any specific precautions or considerations that need to be taken due to my concussion history?
  10. What follow-up care and monitoring will be needed after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Tasker RC. Journal: Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2017 Jun;30(3):343-348. doi: 10.1097/ACO.0000000000000459. PMID: 28277379