Question:
Epidurals not allowed?

I tried to ask my doctor but I could only reach the receptionist. I'm having my surgery (Open RNY) on 7-30-01 at the Bariatric Treatment Center in Belvidere, IL. I have read over and over on this web site that epidurals are great for post-op pain. The receptionist said that Dr. Berkowitz did not use epidurals. Can I request (demand) one anyway? Do I really need one?    — Karen R. (posted on July 19, 2001)

July 19, 2001
I wouldn't worry about it. The patient-controlled morphine pump is absolutely wonderful. Most hospitals will make sure your pain is well taken care of. In fact, some hospitals have pain management specialists you can talk to if you are still uncomfortable. So, try to relax about the method of pain relief and good luck.
   — Maria H.

July 19, 2001
No, don't demand an epidural. One thing that is important to good recovery is getting up and walking or standing very soon after surgery. This is hard to do following an epidural as the feeling doesn't return too quickly some times -- maybe not for hours! I had a bad experience with an epidural once following a c-section - ugh! I don't think you need one so long as you respond well to the pain meds you should be fine! Best wishes on a speedy recovery and great weight loss and return to good health!
   — Cindy H.

July 19, 2001
I wouldn't recommend an epidural.. but hey.. they aren't bad.. I just prefer IV pain pumps.. much more reasonable and better pain management for me personally.
   — Dawn R.

July 19, 2001
RE: Epidurals in pregnancy - I had an epidural in pregnancy and my legs were certainly not numb and I was able to get up and around - although short and very carefully - right away, they wanted you to go to the bathroom immediately after giving birth. Maybe different hospitals/doctors do it differently. Many doctors may not want epidurals because it may mask the pain so good that it may make serious compliations go undetected because you are not feeling the pain from them. A certain amount of pain is good and should be expected, but it must be manageable for you.
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 26, 2002
My surgeon does not use epidurals during WLS because he gives heparin injections to prevent blood clots. It could cause problems of bleeding into the spinal column to have an epidural while on heparin.
   — Linda L.