Anybody have an open procedure?
I have to have an open procedure due to excess scar tissue. Have any of you had one? I need to be able to work from home in 2 weeks, and then back in the hospital but on desk duty in 4. Is that possible? How about the 4 1/2 hr trip home from the hospital. Any ideas?
Marilyn
Marilyn
Smoky Mountain Obesity and WLS Support Group
1/17 6:30 LeConte Medical Center
Marilyn,
I had the open procedure on June 5, 2007. I was in the hospital for 3 days. I was up and moving around the first night. I walked around the wing several times a day. It really helps to get moving. The hardest thing to get used to are the staples. I had 37 staples from right below my sternum to my belly button. When I arrived at home, the biggest issue was getting used to out of bed. Once you figure out how to roll out of bed, it's an art... you'll do fine. I was walking everyday, outside. I would walk to the mailbox of the house next door and continued to add a house/mailbox each day. This really helped my recovery. I was not in much pain at all. Avoid a lot of bending, before and after the staples come out.
You should be able to work from home in 2 weeks and you should be able to go to work in 4. Take it easy. NO LIFTING. I went back on the 22nd of June and my doctor was releasing me to go back to work. I am a teacher, so I was off during the summer, but I was feeling well enough to go back if I had to... OF course... taking it easy.
About the 4 hour trip, try to get where you can lean your seat back or lie down. Stop every now and then, to get out and walk a little (circulation). Use a pillow on your stomach when you are getting up or out of the car and even in the bed when you get in or out. It really helps to hold that pillow on stomach. I sure they will give you pain meds initially when you leave the hospital. You may want to take some before the drive home.
I wish you well.
Sandra (smuggu)
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