Hi all - thought I would provide an update in case that helps others! Going well - incision healing nicely - will likely start silicone this week (see surgeon for check-in and to review my post surgery CT). Got off the scopolamine using a 6 week taper with ZERO side effects. Currently tapering off Keppra but will be talking to doc about slowing the taper down as I do get some unpleasant but not serious side effects; just think we went too fast Walking a bit daily and able to do most household chores as long as they are light :). No neuro effects like brain fog or memory problems. Yes, headaches and weird scalp sensations but Tylenol to the rescue!! So feeling grateful and lucky (they found it and I had a fabulous surgeon). I realize I am only 1/2 way through the initial healing period and then months more while brain finishes mending. Hope everyone is doing okay! Love hearing from others.
Thanks so much for the update, it sounds like you’re doing exceptionally well! I’m really ignorant on craniotomy procedures, I was asked my neurosurgeon if she used a dremel or a Foredom
. If you don’t mind my asking what is the silicone used for?
ha! I think they use a highly specialized cranial drill - it’s an amazing procedure. Silicone is for the incision. Can help flatten and fade the scar over many months. Scars which can run 14 inches in a reverse question mark shape.
Thanks! I did look up the drill and found this ND-4011 Craniotomy Drill | Orthopedic Drills | Orthopedic Drills so now I can tell her if she can borrow one of my hole saws if my aneurysm gets big enough for her to clip and I can tell her I’ve got a couple tubes of silicone caulk so the hospital doesn’t need to charge my insurance for those. Which is much better than the hammer and chisel I was going to let her borrow the first time she told us I may have to have a craniotomy.
Ha. You need medical grade silicone. It can really work well to diminish the appearance of scars, though it can take months. It’s not provided but Amazon had plenty of options once you research the best choice for you. These days, surgeons shave only a very narrow line before making the incision; most surgeons practice “hair preserving” techniques. Most surgeons use staples, not sutures, though sutures are used inside your skull to piece together all the bits they had to open to get to the aneurysm. It’s fascinating!
It truly is fascinating and you’ve led me up a road to enlightenment on craniotomies, thank you so much! I’m obviously going to offer her the use of my things because, well, I’m just me. If it wouldn’t stress out BH so much, I’d suggest she just take the risk of another diagnostic angiogram.
You’ve been wonderful explaining things to me! Big hug!