Neurosurgery three times over: a psychiatrist's insider perspective.

Abstract

The author, a practicing psychiatrist, describes his own experience in becoming a neurosurgical patient, three times in quick succession, for a recurring subdural hematoma. In addition to a brief review of the literature, he observes his own experience, including reaction to the diagnosis and to the surgical, postsurgical, and intensive-care experience. Suggestions are made to neurosurgeons and their staff to help patients during this experience and in recovery, from the vantage point of a psychiatrist who specializes in dealing with psychological issues arising from illness.