gallstones

I had an appointment with Dr. Wheeler today and he gave me the results of my gallbladder ultrasound....I HAVE GALLSTONES! I can't believe it!! So, he says he will take my gallbladder out, but first I have to have a filter put in to protect me from bloodclots. I have not had any type of surgery before and my mom and dad have both have had bloodclots, so he is doing it as a precaution. Has anyone ever had this done? I am really nervous about both procedures----the filter and the gallbladder removal.

Sorry to hear about this. I had my gallbladder out laproscopicilly a few years ago.. it was quite easy.. 3 small incisions... you'll do FINE!! I don''t know anything about the filters!.. But you'll feel so much better getting rid of those gallstones!!

Good Luck, Sandi

I had my gallbladder taken out by Dr. Sonnanstine laparoscopically 2 yrs ago.  Went to work the next day...ok that was stupid, felt awful day after that.  but the surgery itself was not a biggy at all.

I have known tons of folks getting filters.  I work on a surgical floor as well as being a WLS pt. advocate.  I haven't had one person tell me it bothered them at all.  With the right surgeon you will do just fine.  

I had the vena cava filter in Feb. before my surgery, and I can say it didn't hurt a bit, the worst part of it, is the IV, lol. he gave me pain meds, honestly for what reason I do not know, cause I sure didn't need them.  they just ibnsert a very small tube in your upper thigh and that didn't hurt either, they do put you to sleep though. It isn't nothing to worry about, my mom also had a history of blood clots, and it is better to be safe than sorry, after your wls make sure you wear the white stockings they send you home with, this is for blood clots also. 
                                                   Lisa

Lisa-

How long were you in the hospital? He mentioned that I would be there awhile. I googled it and from what I read, you have to lay flat for several hours......is that what you had to do? It hurts if I lay flat for too long--my lower back.

hi,
  I don't remember for sure, I know it was a little while but I got to come home same day, and seems like it didn't take that long, i know about the back problems, and i don't remember it bothering me to much, and also you can ask for an extra pillow or something to put under your back. any more questions just send me a message, and I will be glad to answer