Question:
I need information about bleeding and healing after surgery.

I know bleeding after surgery is a rare possibility. If this happens, what usually causes the bleed? Also, when the small intestine is attached to the stomach and bowel, is it stiched or stapled? Do the stitches eventually dissolve? Thanks for any information you can provide.    — Malinda M. (posted on October 15, 1999)

October 17, 1999
I had open RNY gastric bypass on August 19, 1999 and did loss a lot of blood during surgery. I don't know why. My Hemiglobin dropped to 6.6 (normal is 12 - 16 for women). My Dr. gave me 3 transfusions of packed cells while in the hosp. bring it up to 8.9 on day of release (day 7) and send me home on 2 months of Ferrous Sulfate (iron pills) 5mg twice a day. By week 4 after surgery my Hemiglobin was up to 12.1 and I was feeling much better. I hope this gives you some information. Best of Luck.
   — Cheryl H.

October 18, 1999
Post-op bleeding is very rare, The most common cause is an ulcer or gastritis. All "attachments" are made using staples.
   — Joseph A.