Question:
I have a question about Blood Clots.....

I hear so much about blood clots, associated with this surgery...is there a higher risk of getting them with this surgery? I am scheduled to have WLS August 1st, and the only thing I truly fear is the blood clots. I have never had them before, but reading so much about it has gotten me a bit nervous. Is there a higher risk of getting blood clots with this surgery that with any other surgery? How can you tell if you have one? Do you always know if you have them or is it something that can go unnoticed?    — Giovanna G. (posted on May 10, 2002)

May 10, 2002
Hi, from what I understand, this surgery doesn't make it anymore riskier for blood clots. Its the fact that we are morbidly obese that makes it riskier for blood clots, not the surgery. Although blood clots can happen, its very rare when considering the big picture. Good luck on your upcoming surgery.
   — Tina P.

May 10, 2002
As the previous posters mentioned, blood clots are a concern with any surgery - not just WLS. My surgeon is very thorough with the prevention of clots in his patients. From the time I got onto the operating table until a few days after surgery, he had me wear compression stockings (like long blood pressure cuffs) on my legs, I received Heprin shots 3 times a day and he also requires his patients to have a Doppler study of the lower extremities before discharge to be sure of no clots. I have never had a clot or even any kind of surgery before. He just requires all of his patients to have these done and I am very greatful for his cautiousness.
   — Dona R.