Question:
Is there a test the doctors can requesst to check to see if you have a blood clot?

Also is everyone that has gastric bypass surgery put on heparin or SCD's, or do they get both, and for how long? Which is better of the two, heparin or SCD's, if there is a choice?    — [Anonymous] (posted on October 7, 2001)

October 7, 2001
As a veteran of blood clots on several occasions <smile> I will tell you that there are many tests that can be done. But usually the doctors only do them if you have a history of or predisposition to clotting or if there are any signs and symptoms of a clot. They can do a doplar test that's like an ultrasound of the blood vessels in your leg. Most clots originate from the leg or groin area. They can do other test (special xrays, cat scans) with dye that show the blood and air flow in your lungs to see if there is any obstruction. Most all surgical patients who will be immobile greater than a day are put in SCD's. They inflate on your lower legs and keep the blood from pooling in your legs, returning it through the body, and putting you at less risk for clots. I don't know if they do heparin or other blood thinners for everyone. I have a friend who is 2 days post op and she isn't on any heparin. I will have to be because I have a clotting disorder and have to take blood thinners for my entire life. I hope this helps you. I'm not an expert but I have clots 3 different times in my lungs, leg, and arm and I've been through a lot. If you have any other questions you can email me at [email protected]. Good luck to you!!
   — Tiffany A.

October 7, 2001
I had an experience with blood clots a year ago following a total knee. The clots unfortunately went to both lungs, and I'm lucky to be alive to tell the story. It's all turned out well; I got off the oxygen several months ago. I'm having wls in two weeks and the doctors have decided to have me in 5 days early and a cardiovascular surgeon is going to put a mesh filter in my vena cava (vein) to prevent any clots, should they form after surgery, from traveling to my lungs.
   — Jeanie M.

October 7, 2001
I am in the process of getting many tests before surgery. One of the tests my surgeon ordered was an abdominal sonogram and venous dopler test. The venous dopler test was just like the sonogram, only they checked your upper thighs and groin area for possible blood clots.
   — Dianne K.

October 8, 2001
I had both Heparin and SCD's in the hospital. When I was released (after 4 days) and had to give myself Heparin injections for 2 weeks. Other people I know that had WLS did not have to do this so it may depend on the surgeon or other factors. Good luck!
   — [Anonymous]