Question:
Is the risk of dying from blood clots the same as any other major surgery?

I had kidney surgery in '02 to remove a kidney stone and blood clots were not discussed. just wondering.    — TIFFANY R. (posted on May 9, 2003)

May 9, 2003
I've had many surgeries before my WLS. Nothing was ever mentioned about blood clots, but if you can remember, the nurses do try to get you walking as soon as possible. I've talked with nurses & my PCP and they said that was the main reason. Clotting is possible after any surgery, they are now being more open about it.
   — TLLessor

May 9, 2003
I have a history of blood clots. I am having the surgery on the 20th. My surgeon told me that any operaion is a risk for clots. I am being put on Heperin a week before and after and then back on my coumadin.They also have you up walking almost right away.
   — Carol H.

May 9, 2003
My surgeon told us that all surgeries place you at a risk for blood clots. Because we are obese, there is a higher risk. The most important thing is to have a doppler scan done prior to surgery (to rule out problems), take a heparin or other blood thinner shot prior to surgery and for a while post op, then get up and WALK, WALK, WALK..that part is critical! Talk to your doctor and research this. I did and it gave me more peace of mind. Good luck!
   — rpoepke

May 9, 2003
I developed blood clots.. two of them a couple surface viens and I can feel the bumps. My calf and ankle swells up to humongous proprotions. The skin is so tight and it stings and hurts a lot. I am taking coumadin daily and it doesn't seem to work... the swelling is still there. The doctors don't seem to be concerned about it at all and just state that I am doing all I can for it - This came from 3 different doctors. It's just a huge pain in the ass and hurts. So my advice is to walk walk walk do everything you can to prevent before you have to cure for bloodclots. The doctors say that I might be on the medication for upwards of 6 months or more!! <p>Take Care, Be Well, Be Happy!
   — John T.

May 9, 2003
As a former Nurse, I know that all sugeries carry risks for blood clots but it really is not discussed because they get you up ASAP. There is always a risk when you sit too long (Flying in a airplane) or if you're bedridden for a time. I did not meet the criteria for a Greenfleid Filter prior to surgery but due to complications (AND I DID WALK ALOT - EVEN ON MY SURGERY DAY) I developed Pulmonary Embolis, Deep Vein Thrombosis - which all affected my heart. So I got that Filter after my surgery and now I'm on Coumadin plus Cardiac meds for a while. No one knows why or who will get the clots - be active, walk but be aware of any calf pain or alot of shortness of breath. We are at risk - take care.- Sally, Harrison, MI
   — Sally P.