Question:
Is the risk of forming blood clots in this surgery the same as in any surgery?

I've had about 8 surgeries in my whole life and I've never formed any blood clots. I know in this surgery they talk a lot about them, since this is the only surgery I've ever really looked into I'm wondering if it's just as common in other surgeries.    — Sheryl Johnson (posted on March 7, 2003)

March 7, 2003
Yes, any time you are not mobile you run the risk of developing blood clots. People can develop them on very long plane rides if they don't get up and move around every hour or so. This is true even for people who are not MO.
   — garw

March 7, 2003
I have had three blood clots. One formed after I hit my leg. The other two formed after surgeries. My doctor says I have no more chance to develope one with this surgery or if I have to have any other surgery due to overweight. I will take my chances. They will keep close watch on you and give you heperin.
   — Carol H.

March 10, 2003
I was just reading an article about this today. Any surgery runs the risks of blood clots. And as one poster already mentioned, even long plane rides (or car ride) when your legs are imobile can cause blood clots. The best way to avoid them as much as possible is to move your legs around and walk, walk, walk....
   — Martha K.

March 10, 2003
I think we're about tied for the number of past surgeries...arghhh. Don't let the past deter you from taking every conceivable precaution this time. I've been fortunate to never have had to deal with blood clots, but it is something weighing heavily on my mind this time. Yes, I know this procedure is no more susceptible to them than any other procedure, but it still worries me. Take care and be safe!
   — Diane S.