During development inside the mother's womb, the arteries do not divide into capillaries before joining veins. Without capillaries that reduce the pressure in blood vessels, the higher pressure inside the arteries may cause rupture or bleeding because the veins are not able to tolerate as high a pressure as arteries. Surrounding brain cells do not receive the proper amount of oxygen which may result in scar tissue being formed as the surrounding brain tissue is deprived of oxygen. The patient may develop seizures. Following stereotactic radiosurgery, bandaids are usually placed over the pin sites from the stereotactic frame which should be removed the following day.
Some people experience a minimally amount of tenderness surrounding the pin sites.
Occasionally, swelling occurs around the pin sites. If swelling occurs, you should keep your head elevated and apply an ice pack to the area. A mild analgesic such as tylenol may be helpful. Usually you may return to your usual activities the following day if you are not bothered by swelling. If you perform heavy lifting, please check with your neurosurgeon about any limitations.