weird question

They put it in when I was under.   I wish they would have knocked me out to take it out though.   It stung and I thought the nurse had yanked one the insides of one of my ********s along with the tube but it was over in a few seconds and I went back and vegged out to more Demerol. 

All in all it was pretty forgettable.   I must say that while it was in I didn't even feel it and it sure was convenient not having to get up to go to the bathroom.   They pump a ****load of fluids and stuff into you via an IV and had I not had the catheter I would have had to get up multiple times an hour to pee.

To be honest with you, pulling the abdominal drain was overall more unpleasant than pulling the catheter.

The drain felt momentarily like my guts were being sucked out my navel; the catheter burned coming out for a shorter time period, and also burned the first time I peed afterwards. In the end, both were more surprise than out-and out pain. If I had to do it over again, neither would bug me because I now know what to expect.

If you're still uptight about the catheter, ask the surgical staff to lube it extra well before going in.

A very cute, young student nurse pulled my cath; imagine the big smile on her face when I thanked her afterwards for not laughing at my equipment...

Most surgical programs have the bladder catheter inserted into the patient once a day are under anesthesia.  That means completely out.  Depending on your surgeon, the length of your surgery and anything else he/she may take into consideration, you may wake up with the catheter in place.  Most of my patients tell me the catheter makes them feel like they have to pee all the time.  Removal of the catheter is described as severe burning which is relieved by peeing immediately. Don't be scared of the catheter.  This is merely a safety item for your surgeon to make sure you are healthy and well during your time in surgery and in the hospital.

Good luck to you and good health.

Dr. Dirk Rodriguez

Deaconess Hospital

Cincinnati, OH

Any information given in this message is general and not intended to address specific medical concerns. Always seek advice from your bariatric surgeon or personal doctor.