Question:
Has anyone had surgery and did not use the compession stockings?

I found out through another patient that the doctor I will be using does not use compression stockings after surgery. I do know that he does prescribe heprian. So, is heprian going to be enough? Is there a reason that he would say not necessary to stockings? Or is heprian enough? I wonder if I can insist on the stockings? What is your input? I know the higher your BMI the higher the risk of blood clots. My bmi is about 59-60. I have no other co-morbids. Thanks    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 10, 2001)

January 9, 2001
I NEVER HAD TO WEAR ANY . BUT I ALSO NEVER HAD TO TAKE HEPRIN.MY SUGGESTION IS TO START WALKING AS SOON AS YOU GET OUT OF THE OPERATING ROOM . I STARTED WALKING THAT VERY DAY. THE SOONER YOU GET UP AND WALK THE BETTER OFF YOU ARE AND WILL HEAL FASTER ALSO. IM NOT SAYING ITS EASY BUT YOULL BE MUCH BETTER OFF . I GOT UP AND WALKED AS SOON AS THEY GOT ME IN A ROOM . NOT FAR BUT IT WAS A START.I HAD OPEN RNY ON OCTOBER 6 2000 AND HAVE LOST 84LBS SO FAR. AND AM FEELING GREAT.
   — Heather K.

January 9, 2001
Hi! On the date of my surgery (open VBG on April 17/00), my BMI was 52.2. I wasn't given compression stockings (even though I had one permanently swollen ankle from the weight) and heparin shots once or twice (the exact detail is lost in the post-op morphine and demorol fog -- I know FOR SURE it was 10.00 in the morning, and I'm almost sure it was 10.00 at night too, but I'm not positive) a day. I had no trouble at all. The key, as Heather pointed out, is keep moving. Walk if you can -- it'll feel weird and hurt some and be exhausting, but you'll be better for it -- and keep moving in your bed if you can't. Change your position, bounce your legs up and down, squiggle your butt. It's keeping still that makes your blood pool and clot. Heparin's probably enough -- but keep moving! Best of luck,
   — Cheryl Denomy

September 6, 2001
I'm still pre-op, but I'm a nurse and routinely care for post-op trauma patients. I personally wouldn't be without compression stockings or things that are called "sequential compression devices" (SCDs), in addition to heparin. Larger folks like us are at a much higher risk for blood clots than the average bear, since our size limits our movement. A previous posting says that getting up and around early and often obviates the need for stockings and SCDs. I agree - early mobility is the best defense against both respiratory complications and blood clots. (Afer I have my surgery on 11/12, I'll let you know if I took my own advice...)
   — Danette H.

September 6, 2001
You are the customer. You are paying for this surgery (in a roundabout way). Therefore, you make the choice as to what it is you need. You need to be proactive if you have concerns over clotting. It really is your decision. I asked my doc at the first consultation if he used Heparin and stockings so if he said no I would know to insist. (BMI was 52 with no serious co morbs).
   — Kimberly L.

September 6, 2001
I can understand your concern in this area. I am a nurse, 1 week post op with an Open RNY. I had a BMI of 54, co-morbidities of Hypertension, asthma and diabetes. I too, was concerned about what would be done pre-op. Knowing my doctor is very conservtive when it comes to these tests and treatments. Yet, he has been doing this surgery for over 20 years and has had one death and one leak. He must be doing something right. I did NOT have compressions hose. I did NOT have Heparin. I did NOT have a G-tube or a post op leak test. I had no preop testing other than the normal regulated tests. I sometimes think that alot of it is overkill to keep the doctor from lawsuits. Since I have been a nurse for over 20 years I think I know a little about that. My best advice to you it to empowered about your own healthcare. Listen, to your doctor and his reasoning behind why he does and does not ordered certain things. Most of all. WALK, WALK, WAlK. I am doing so well. I was up walking the halls the day of surgery. I have had no problems with my diet, nausea or vomiting. Yesterday I must have walked 3 miles taking my daughter to the zoo. I have lost 16 lbs this week according to my doctors scales. A safe and happy surgery can be done. I wish you well.
   — [Anonymous]