Surgery on 8/23/10

I'm happy to be able to say I've gone through all the tests, am having IVC inserted tomorrow and will be having my surgery next Monday.  I know I don't post often, but I just want everyone to know that the information and support here is invaluable.

Hi Catt,

Congratulations on your upcoming surgery. Where are you having the surgery done? I know that several of the programs such as UNC Chapel Hill routinely do IVCs, but wasn't sure which one you are using. 

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

It will be at New Hanover Regional in Wilmington.  The IVC isn't routinely used by Dr Miles as far as I know, I suggested that I wouldn't mind having one since my bmi is so high and my ability to walk is so limited. 

Hi Catt,

Some programs use the IVC routinely and others, like Dr. Miles at New Hanover, use them on a case by case basis.  For people that have a history of issues with embolisms, circulatory problems, limphedema, or very high BMIs they have been shown to be very effective in 'capturing' an embolism before it has the opportunity to do signficant damage. I have a friend who had one and it caught a quarter size embolism. 

I look forward to getting to know you and hear of your progress as you make your way on this life changing journey. 

All the best, 

Had my surgery on Monday and have been home since Tues afternoon.  Yesterday was rough, I was sore and kinda cranky.  This morning I am feeling a bit better.  I've not lost any weight yet.  I don't know how long thats supposed to go on for.  I know they put 3 times the fluid into me than they normally use and that did cause me to gain.  I wasn't voiding much and they thought I was very dehydrated.  After a shot of Lasiks I was filling the bag like mad.  Unfortunately they didn't give me any to take home and I've only been going small amounts since. 

Today is my first day of full liquids and I'm drinking a shake that has 25g of protein and has vitamins in it as well.  I was feeling an odd feeling yesterday, almost a desparation for nutrition, in spite of not really having an appetite.  I feel better about that even after only a couple of sips of this shake.  Probably a head thing.

I'm happy to be on the other side of my 2 year struggle to get the surgery.  Now I'm going to do the same effort and work toward making it work for me.  Thanks for being here!