How to Prepare for Brain Tumor Surgery

When you are scheduled for brain tumor surgery it is easy to get anxious and fearful. Knowing precisely what to do before your surgery will have you able to start the recovery much easier. It will keep you less stressed, and with less stress comes easier healing.

• Get Cleared Medically – Prior to undergoing brain surgery you will need to get medically cleared. This means that you will need to see a general doctor to show that you are of good health otherwise and will be able to go through anesthesia without difficulty. This may mean tests to make sure you have good blood flow and no heart problems. Depending on your conditions, there may be other things to take care of prior to undergoing brain surgery.


• Medication Alerts – The doctor will take into account all the medications you are taking. Some you may have to stop. This will include over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements. Those on blood thinners will need to stop at least eight days before the surgery to prevent what is known as ‘bleeding out’.


• Consider the Risks – Discuss with your family and friends what your wishes are should you not make it out of surgery. All surgery carries a risk and while complications that serious from brain surgery are low, they are still there. Discuss whether you need a living will before the procedure. Make sure that you have a will already in place. Have conversations with loved ones that you have put off. Prepare for the worst, expect the best.