Question:
Has anyone developed neuropathy post-op?

I developed neuropathy 2 months post-op. Is this surgery or vitamin B12 deficiency?    — Juana G. (posted on January 3, 2001)

January 3, 2001
Peripheral neuropathy is a common neurological disorder resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves. It may be caused by diseases of the nerves or as the result of systemic illnesses. Many neuropathies have well-defined causes such as diabetes, uremia, AIDs, or nutritional deficiencies. In fact, diabetes is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Other causes include mechanical pressure such as compression or entrapment, direct trauma, penetrating injuries, contusions, fracture or dislocated bones; pressure involving the superficial nerves (ulna, radial, or peroneal) which can result from prolonged use of crutches or staying in one position for too long, or from a tumor; intraneural hemorrhage; exposure to cold or radiation; and vascular or collagen disorders such as atherosclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, sarcoidosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and polyarteritis nodosa. A common example of entrapment neuropathy is carpal tunnel syndrome, which has become more common because of the increasing use of computers. Although the causes of peripheral neuropathy are diverse, they produce common symptoms including weakness, numbness, paresthesia (abnormal sensations such as burning, tickling, pricking or tingling) and pain in the arms, hands, legs and/or feet. A large number of cases are of unknown cause.
   — [Deactivated Member]

January 3, 2001
I developed neuropathy the third day after my surgery on 12/12/00. All the fingers on both my hands except for the pinkies are numb. Typing is a real chore. So far they don't understand what is causing this, but it is interfering with my career as a medical transcriptionist. Where is your neuropathy? You didn't mention that.
   — Meryl F.

January 3, 2001
I am pre-op, but already have neuropathy in both arms and legs due to my diabetes and due to leaning on my elbows a lot (compression damage--ulnar palsy). I also have carpal tunnel syndrome and I have reverse neuropathy in my legs, which means they hurt more instead of feeling numb. Many conditions can cause neuropathy. I had gallbladder surgery in 1988, which was not laprascopic. My surgeon had to cut through the nerves in my belly to get to my gallbladder, so below the incision, my belly is numb. Depending on where your neuropathy is, you could probably determine the cause. But if you are unsure, ask your doctor. He/she is the ultimate expert. Good luck to you! :-)
   — SnowWhiteDove459