How to prepare for brain surgery: a patient's guide

Once a surgical date is set, my rooms will send you a written preparation pack. It covers the hospital admission time, fasting instructions, what to pack and which medications to stop.

In the weeks before surgery, focus on the things that improve outcomes: stop smoking, control blood pressure and blood sugar, and stay as active as your condition allows. If you drink alcohol regularly, tell me — sudden cessation can complicate the anaesthetic.

About a week before, arrange practical support at home: someone to drive you home from hospital, help with children or elderly parents, and, if you live alone, a friend or family member for at least the first week of recovery.

On admission day, bring your ID, medical aid card, authorisation letter, a list of all medications and supplements, your imaging on disc, comfortable loose clothing and toiletries. Leave valuables at home.

The night before, follow the fasting instructions exactly — usually nothing to eat or drink from midnight. Shower with the antiseptic wash if you have been given one. Try to sleep. Everything you need to do has already been done.