pre-op swab negative for MRSA but positive for MSSA

Yes, I have used both Heparin and Lovenox injections before (I have a strong history of multiple DVTs, and have had to do the injections before and after multiple surgeries over the years), but he was talking about something I have never heard of, so I agreed with my PCP that consulting with a hematologist to oversee it (and use the same medication) both before and after surgery made sense.  My PCP wants me to get a full blood work up, anyway, to see if we can find out what causes the clots (maybe we can address that instead of just keeping me on Coumadin for the rest of my life.. Although, after being on it since 1979, what's another 30 years?! )

Lora

Maybe Coumadin for a while, but your levels will have to be taken often to stay within a certain range.

I normally take Coumadin daily.  The problem is that Coumadin has about a three day effect, so you have to go off of it 7 days before surgery, and after surgery, even though you can start it again the next day, it takes almost a week to get your levels back to where they need to be.  So they use the injections before and after, while coming off and going back on the Coumadin, to keep the levels therapeutic during those transition times.

Lora

My daughter cultures it in her lungs.   It should respond to antibiotics well....you can use bactrim or other non-cillins.    It is not as dangerous as MRSA because it is susceptible to a number of antibiotics.    Its good they know now, so they can avoid you getting  a wound infection with the staph.  Staph Aureus (aka MSSA) is incredibly common on most surfaces.   Its not commonly found in the lungs unless you have a disease that compromises the lungs.  My daughter has cystic fibrosis and it is very common in those patients.    I know it sounds scary, but it should not be a big deal.    Just be certain to use the antibacterial stuff they give you and post-surgery be vigilant with any antibiotics and wound cleaners they prescribe.   If you have more questions, I'm happy to answer. . . sadly I know more about bacteria than I ever wanted to know.

They are opposites.  MRSA is resistant, MSSA is sensitive.  Or in other words, methicillin works.