The after hours call from the operating suite where a neurosurgeon is operating tends to be one that sends blood pressure soaring. It doesn’t have to be that way. There are basic steps that can help make the experience much less stressful. Generally you know the age, which narrows the differential considerably. The location, history of the patient (., neurofi - bromatosis, or known breast cancer), and type and duration of symptoms can all also be very illuminating. We glean the electronic record for information prior to regularly sche duled cases, although that doesn’t generally work as well for the evening/weekend emergent surgery. Sometimes, you have to lead your call to.
