What does the game do when loading a save?

[WarbirdShaman]

I'm having CTDs on loading of save files, not 100% of the time but enough for me to know I should attempt a resolution before really throwing myself into this playthrough. Starting new games or COCing from the main menu works fine.

So I'm wondering what exactly happens when Skyrim loads a savegame.

For example, can the system run out of memory as it has to forget everything and then recall everything from the save file with some rapidity?
(wondering if it might be a memory issue as some modded NPCs just aren't being spawned, that's a good indicator that loading will CTD)


Knowing anything about what the game calls on during this time would be appreciated.