pt died from complications at rwh

I heard today that a 56yo pt died within the last 2 wks at rwh. Now i'm getting scared!!!

Aimee

Well, people die from all types of surgery, driving in cars, walking, airplanes... Gotta do what you think is right or live in fear of the unknown!

TammyDe,

I absolutely agree. The point is that I want to live. Unfortunately, if a patient does not go into surgery healthy, or not telling their doctor the whole truth, complications can happen. I just found it disturbing because you don't hear of many deaths due to gb surgeries anymore. The surgeons are doing much more screening test now, than even 5 yrs ago. I still feel that itis the right decision for me.

Aimee

Hello, Did you read this in a newspaper, just wondering if you had the link? I am not saying that I don't believe you....just wanted to read the article.  I am in the early stages of WLS and will be going to Roger Williams. The patient could of had other cir****tancesas well.  Again as mentioned....there are always risks involved with surgeries.  And yes as mentioned  very important to tell the surgeon of any/all health issues that you have. Also I thought there was an age limit as to how old the patient can be...and I thought is was 52ish...if I remember from the orientation.  I could be mistaken, wouldn't be the first time!  ha -Rob 

We risk our lives everyday. We just don't think about it as we go about our daily routine.  I'd rather go into a surgery of my choice then a emergency surgery where there is very little room for choices.   It's natural to be nervous!

Who's the surgeon? I'd like to read it too if it's a link or newspaper. I want all the information I can get. BTW, how was your appt today? I hope it went well. Jules

Hey Aimee.. being nervous is okay as long as it doesnt make you obsessive. Just do all your homework and do your best to keep your doctor informed. Good luck with your decision.

Aimee,  As far as I know, Dr Pohl and Dr Giovanni are the only 2 surgeons who perform the surgery at RW. I just called their office and talked to Carol, She hadnt heard anything about someone dying recently. Now, I'm not saying it didnt happen, because we all know it is a possibility. But just remember that the chances are small, they are actually smaller than many other surgeries but because of the nature of this surgery people tend to get more scared.  For me personally, this surgery saved my life. I am in the best health right now that I've ever been in. No high blood pressure, no diabetes, I have tons of energy and I feel better than I have in 20 years.   

Hello Everyone!!!

I GOT MY DATE!!!!!!!!! June 5, 2008

I don't have the details on the death. I do know that she was a friend of someone that I work with. She was a nurse at Fatima, and she did have many health issues going into surgery. She suffered a heart attack, then got septic. She was a DNR, and did not any funeral services, or it to be in the paper. It is also my understanding that she may have issues with depression. Again, this is all from a second party, but I will get more info if I can. Her sister was against her having the surgery, and was quite surprised that she passed the pre-op testing.

Who knows, it might not be true, but I heard it from a close family friend.

Aimee

congrats on your date!!!  how exciting!!  Less than a month away!!!