Laparoscopic Hysterectomy after WLS

I'm scheduled for a laparoscopic hysterectomy and just got instructions for the night before. I'm supposed to do a bowel prep with Fleets. There is no way that I can get all that fluid down in the short time I'm supposed to. Has anyone been through this and how did they handle it? I'm also supposed to be on liquids for 24 hours before. Is there a problem with not eating protein for a couple of days? I'm a little over a year out.

Susan, I had a hysterectomy earlier this year when I had my circumferential lower body lift. At the time, I was about 1 1/2 years out. My GYN also required me to do the Fleets bowel prep the night before, and do a 24-hr. liquid diet the day before. Actually, the plastic surgeon explained to me why this was required (by the GYN, not the PS). He explained that for the hysterectomy, the bowel/colon must be lying absolutely flat so it stays out of the way of the surgery related to the hysterectomy. The GYN does not want to risk even nicking the bowel/colon. (In my case, if that had happened, it would have been repairable, but would have totally scotched the ensuing plastic surgery to follow.) I don't believe it made any difference that my surgery was open because of the plastic surgery. As for getting in the entire Fleets -- yes, as bad as it was the night before my RNY surgery, when I had the benefit of a full-size stomach -- it was tough. I did split it into two "sessions", one-half at a time. Of course, there was pretty much nothing left by the second session. The GYN's office told me that if I thought I absolutely couldn't get in the second half of the Fleets, I was to call the office and have the doctor on call phone me back. I got in most of the second half, gagging all the way. I'd suggest you discuss this with your GYN and explain the situation. Perhaps he/she can give you an alternate approach that will accomplish what needs to be done. Good luck. Leesa

Hi Susan, I would also call your surgeon who did your gastric bypass and give them a heads up. My surgeon worked with my gyn oncologist when my ovaries were removed lap last year. My bowel prep was modified when the two surgeon's spoke to one another. As far as the fasting 24 hours prior, you have enough stores so that isn't a problem. Best wishes on a speedy recovery! Lisa