Question:
Has anybody had an epidural during WLS?

I had an epidural with my last C-sect and only took Tylenol post op. I found I didn't need the narcotics they offered. I was up and walking around within just a few hours post op. Has anybody had an epidural with WLS? Does it help the pain? And were you able to walk as soon as the epidural wore off?    — Julie K. (posted on September 14, 1999)

September 14, 1999
I had an epidural for my surgery..it isn't the same as the kind for child birth...but it works like a charm......from the time they removed the epidural till now I have only had 3 percocet..and 2 of them were taken for the 3 hour drive home from the hospital.........I am 11 days post op now....
   — pam.leach

September 15, 1999
I had gastric bypass on August 9th and had an epidural. I had very little pain post-op. Was able to get around quite well the day after surgery. I was hooked up to the narcotics where I could control it myself after 3 days they disconnected it because I had used so little. I used it a few times after I had been up for a while. My wish for everyone that has this surgery would be that they have as easy as I had it. I have not regretted one moment of my decision. Janet
   — Janet C.

January 1, 2000
I had open RNY on 12/28/99 and didn't know until PREOP when I met with my anesthesiologist that I wanted an epidural. I had received many conflicting responses when I asked friends and family whether I should go with the epidural or the PCA pump. My doctor told me I'd have to decide on my own which to use. The epidural was put in while I was in PREOP and it took less than 5 minutes. No pain whatsoever and it was about the ONE thing that didn't bother me while I was in the hospital. Never felt it in my back and being able to push the little button and have more medicine at my command was WONDERFUL.
   — Jeannie W.