Ok..I have almost decided to have the surgery BUT I have ????'s

[Guest guest]

I have a few questions?

1. How long are we normally in the hospital for? Just wondering as my

surgery will be out of town and hubby is comming so we need to know

for his accomidations as well.

2. After the surgery are we in ICU at all? If so for how long?

3. The shunt that is put in..where is it drained to? Does it stick

out of the skin at all? Why am I hearing that it needs to be

adjusted...or commucitated with?? Sorry I am confused.

4. How long does the surgery take..approx?

5. Does you have to wear a collar of some sort and if so for how

long? Do you have to sleep with it on?

6. The Halo that some people speak about...after surgery s that

really drilled into the bones in your head? How long do you keep

that on?

7. Is physical therapy a good idea after surgery?

8. Do you loose the aility to move your neck after...ROM. Just

wondering for driving and my business I have?

9. How long till you get back to a normal life...meaning when can I

start doing things again..ie my business...gardening..housework and

such?

10. What should I bring to the hospital...and not *the funny list

either*?

Sorry for all the questions...I am trying to make my decision this

week if I am going to do this or not...and I have many concerns.

Blessings, Love and speedy recovery to all

Helana