There is a reason neurosurgery residency is 7-9 years of grueling hours. It is because this type of rigorous training makes emergencies almost motor memory, where we can do it anytime with little or no preparation. We can go years without doing some of these surgeries and still have no difficulty with it due to the vast number of surgeries and experience we get in training and after. The minute you get that phone call to come in, your fatigue disappears and you are in the zone. You don't relax until the brain is stabilized and the patient is safe. This can create an intense atmosphere as the whole team is focused on quickly stabilizing the patient. As soon as the most urgent part is done, we will often tell the anesthesiologist that the critical part is done, and everyone takes a breath to return to a normal pace. So if you are a loved one is having surgery in the middle of the night- rest assured you will be in good hands. #neurosurgery #neurosurgeon #womeninstem #doctor #oncall