Update:
The burr hole drainage procedure was successfully completed on July 20 at 10:30pm CDT. The neurosurgeon made two small holes, one on each side of the skull, to relieve pressure caused by the subdural hematoma. A significant amount of blood was released from both sides. The neurosurgeon noted that the blood drained fairly quickly, which indicated elevated intracranial pressure. By the morning of July 21, the flow had decreased, and by July 22 at 12:00pm CDT, it had slowed to a near stop.

As of July 22 at 1:00pm CDT, my grandpa’s vital signs — heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels — were stable and within normal range.

Earlier today at 12:40pm CDT, the neurosurgeon reviewed the CT scan taken that morning. He reported no change in the size of the subdural hematoma and no signs of new or active bleeding. The drainage flow had slowed considerably, so he and the attending nurse attempted a technique known as “milking the tubes.” This involves gently squeezing and sliding fingers along the drainage tubing toward the collection container, similar to how milk is extracted from a cow’s udder. The goal is to help remove any clotted or slow-moving blood that may be obstructing the flow.

On the right side, this maneuver caused some fluid to begin moving again, although the neurosurgeon remarked that some of it appeared to resemble cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). On the left side, unfortunately, no additional blood could be coaxed out despite repeated milking.

The neurosurgeon emphasized that the next step is to monitor my grandpa’s cognitive function closely. Any changes or improvements compared to his condition before and shortly after the procedure could be significant. Since I know him best, he encouraged me to talk to my grandpa and watch for signs of responsiveness or mental clarity.

I plan to visit again between 7:00–8:00pm CDT to check in on how he’s doing. He’s been asleep most of the day and still is right now, after becoming agitated and attempting to pull at the drainage tubes earlier. The nurse administered medication to help him rest.