Pre-op testing???
My DH got the info for the Pre-Op testing he will need:
1. CBC (complete blood count)
2. Chest XRay
3. EKG
I'm a little surprised, as it seems some surgeons require a whole lot more than this. Just so you know these will be the only tests he has to take for the surgery. There was no pre consult testing. No psych test, no colonoscopy, no endoscopy, no pulmonologist (we already know he has sleep apnea, so maybe that's why?) Just a referral for the consult, and then a referral for the surgery.
He's going to his PCP (to get the referral for these tests) on October 19.
Just curious as to what you all think about this.
Thanks!
Jen,
I've been noticing the same thing with a lot of folks.
I think that's the reason I chose the surgical center I did.. it put my mind at ease that they learned as much as they could about me and my body AND made sure I learned as much as I could about what I am about to go through before they'd let me go under the knife.
For some folks, it's not necessary to have all that other stuff.. the tests it sounds like your DH is scheduled for will also be on my docket for the day I go in for surgery. Those are all common pre-op tests.. all the rest of what I'm doing is just part of a larger program.
In fact, if you wanted to, you could come to the group meetings on saturdays -- I think they're open to anyone. Patients are charged a $10 fee and visitors/supporters attend for free. It's just something I know I'm going to need to help me re-establish good habits on the other side.
I don't think it's anything to worry about. What does your DH think about the difference from Dr. to Dr. that we see on these boards?
Stef
Stef,
We didn't really get to pick the surgeon. His PCP originally wanted him to go to WISH, but the HMO wouldn't approve that. The PCP eventually told us that the only Dr. he thinks they'll approve is Dr. Vitello.
As far as the site goes, my DH hasn't really seen it, only heard about it through me. He might go to a support group meeting with me, because I know that I haven't been able to answer all his questions, although I try. Can you give me some details about the sessions? I'd love to go anyway, even if by myself, just to get a chance to hear some more details...the surgeon recommends attending them, he just doesn't have them himself.
Overall, though, I've felt very comfortable with Dr. V., although it doesn't seem he has much in the way of aftercare, but reading about his patients, it does seem as though he is caring and competent. We won't meet with him again until 11/11, but so far my DH has talked to him a few times and really feels comfortable with him.
The letter we got that described the tests does indicate that he will meet with a nutritionist at the pre-op meeting, so that's good.
I do think though, that he has some valid questions that might get answered better at a support group meeting, even if it's just listening.
Thanks,
Jen
Jen,
There are different kinds of support groups.. the one I went to was a behavioral group.. there's a manual you can buy to follow along with (and I recommend it.. it's very helpful for both you and your DH to refer to as you go through this process) -- it's not expensive and you only need one.
Each week, the group works through a different chapter.. then spends some time at the end of session talking and asking questions - sometimes it's about the chapter.. sometimes not.. it's a great place for questions like the ones I'm sure T has.. particularly because it's a mix of people in there, pre and post op AND a behavioral counselor..
The ones I go to are at Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove Village. I can get you a schedule if you like.. If you decide to attend one, just let me know and I'll try to be there..
Stef