Question:
My surgeon didn't check for leakage
I don't know if he's going to do it at my one week check up (tomorrow) or if he's going to do it at all. Is this normal? The reason why i'm asking is because I cheated with some cream of wheat(go ahead I deserve it), and i'm kinda concerned. I'm not having any adverse reactions or anything, just concerned. — Laydie K. (posted on May 27, 2003)
May 26, 2003
Its never a good idea to cheat! But it does happen. Most do ceat at least a
bit. If your going to cheat do it responsibly! Soft creamy foods that would
be OK soon for you. One poster here ate beef jerky at just a few days out.
Ruptureed his pouch,required a operation and nearly died. The jerky wasnt
the only jerk in this case. Your surgeon isnt going to check you for leaks
unless your having a fever and other symptoms. So just relax and be happy!@
— Sam J.
May 26, 2003
Hi Laydee... it's my surgeon's standard operating procedure to do a leak
check the very next day after surgery, but that does not make you safe from
leaks. There is a time that your stomach is trying to heal that it is very
vulnerable to leaks, even on clear liquids. My surgeon allowed soft mushy
foods (poached eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, etc.) after my one week check
up. You are probably fine, just be very careful. Like the previous
poster, I know of instances where people were completely stupid and went
against their surgeon's strict orders and ate pizza just home from the
hospital... and unfortunately died. You didn't do bad with the cream of
wheat... that was a smart choice, but others haven't been so smart. Love
and blessings.
— Happy I.
May 26, 2003
My surgeon checks for leaks by using dye while he has you open on the
operating room table. Maybe that is what your dr. did.
— sandy L.
May 27, 2003
Double check and ask your Doc if he checked for leaks. You may have been
asleep when he did it. Mine checks while you are still on the operating
table when the surgery is done.
— M B.
May 27, 2003
My surgeon did my leak test before he closed me up, which I'm very grateful
for. This, to me, sure sounds like the BETTER way to do it! Anyway, ask
your doc when/how he checks for leaks. When I left the hospital, I KNEW at
least I wasn't leaking. But, don't stress too much about it. Also it's
probably best to follow the doc's orders on your eating as well...he most
assuredly has his reasons for a liquid diet (I'm assuming that's what
you're on since you say you "cheated" with Cream of Wheat). As
difficult as it may seem, it's best to follow your particular program early
on because your decisions/options for eating are going to get more complex
as you go along, and you'll need to develop your discipline now. Just my
humble suggestion, Laydie Kriss. I know you'll do great! Hugs, Joy
— [Deactivated Member]
May 27, 2003
My surgeon checked for leaks during the operation. And don't be so worried
about the cream of wheat...while it might not be what your doctor allows, I
was allowed it before leaving the hospital, so it shouldn't hurt you,
although it is best to follow your own surgeons post-op nutrition
guidelines.
— Sarahlicious
May 27, 2003
Demand the test! I'm very shocked your surgeon didn't do it the day after
surgery, that is usually standard procedure, that way if there is a leak or
something wrong, they fix it right away since you'e already in the
hospital. But I would definately ask for it when you see him, it's just a
precaution. As for the cream of wheat or oatmeal...that's not really
cheating! SO don't worry about it- n one will yell at you for that (atleast
they better not! :-) ) Every surgeon and nutritionist has different views,
some are told to eat oatmeal right after surgery, others are told to wait a
few weeks or a month, either way, it's basically a liquid and won't hurt
you. Goodluck to you :-)
— Lezlie Y.
May 27, 2003
Hi, I thought I would have a leak test but my doctor said in the last
30-40- operations they have done they can tell who will need the test.
Don't be concerned. They learn new things every day. Trust in your doctor.
I am one week out and am doing fine at 66 1/2
— Carol H.
May 27, 2003
If you have your surgery Lap they usually do a leak test the next day.
Open, they do the test during surgery. Some also do a leak test on open
the next day.
— faybay
May 27, 2003
Thanks for all your responses. I talked with my surgeon today and he said
he didn't have to do a leak test on me. He said he has to do the test only
on some patients, not all, just about a handfull. I'm not concerned
anymore, he said if I really believed I have a leak (which I don't) and
want a test, he wouldn't object. I'm fine with it. Thanks all!
— Laydie K.
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