Question for Dr. Titus Duncan Patients

What does the pre-op appointment for the gastric by-pass consist of?

Pre-op will consist of paperwork, a class all about your procedure (the risks, nutrition, what vitamins to buy, pre-op and post-op diet, plus you will receive your prescriptions for post surgery pain control). You will then go over to the hospital and be pre-admitted for your endoscopy and surgery. You will then do a blood and urine tests and a chest x-ray.This all will take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours.

They may tell you that if all goes well with your procedure (and you have it early in the morning) you may go home the same day. Don't let this scare you. Just tell them no you want to stay the night at the hospital if you want to stay. I refused to go home. It was no big deal. Some people would rather recover in the comforts of their own home. I have two little ones and was looking forward to 24 hours of quiet in the hospital.

Thank you.

Another question. How long before I can drive?

After surgery? I would give it at least two weeks. You need to be off of your pain meds. Each person is different. The first week is clear liquids which leaves you feeling pretty drained and a little loopy. I had the luxury of In-Laws helping with the kids so I didn't drive until I felt like it. There are others that were out driving around with in days of surgery, not me.

After pre-op driving is not a problem. After endoscopy you will be groggy & in need of someone to drive you home.

Thank you, you are so helpful. Can you tell I am a little nervous. I keep telling my husband, I am so nervous about the endoscopy. Just the thought of it going down my throat.

Thank you both for posting the questions and the replys!  I have often thought of the same questions.
Themuck keep me posted on all your ongoings.
I am starting to get nervous even though I still dont have my dates, but hopfully I will have them this week.