Question:
Is ICU post-op the norm?

I'm hoping to have a Lap RNY with Dr Salvino at Good Samaritian Hospital in IL. I've been reading an AWFUL lot about post-ops going directly to ICU from surgery. THAT scares me! Anyone have some comforting news to the contrary?    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 26, 2001)

January 25, 2001
My news isn't to the contrary, because I did go right to the ICU after surgery. It really needn't be scary at all. The staff will take great care of you and have everything they need at their fingertips. It's just a precautionary measure actually. I went to my own room after about 6 hours in the ICU. My doctor does this will all of his patients. Best of health to you!
   — Marnie K.

January 26, 2001
I had an open RNY with Dr. Salvino in August 2000, I did go to ICU for a day or two, I wouldn't worry about it..he likes to be cautious..he is a great doctor and I'm sure everything will be just fine...I have had absolutely no complications whatsoever.....feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions [email protected]
   — christine L.

January 26, 2001
I had surgery at a facility that doesn't have an ICU per se and I got e-mails from some people who cautioned me about it. However, my facility hasn't had any deaths at all, and, if necessary, can transport to a different facilty (which has happened). After talking to 3 Dr.s- my PCP, my OB-GYN, and my best friends hubby, all 3 having MY best interests at heart, the concensus from ALL 3 was go to the most experienced surgeon- an ICU isn't necessary. My facility treated me (and all newly postops) very individually the 1st day and watched us like hawks. I think if your surgeon wants you to go to ICU, it is probably precautionary and you will be watched a little more closely than a regular ward- doubtful it is for any other reason. Good Luck!
   — M B.

January 26, 2001
Hi! I was in ICU after surgery, mostly for precautionary reasons...no big deal. I got FAR better care in ICU and I am quite glad that I was there. Good luck...
   — Holly G.

January 26, 2001
My comforting news is that my lap RNY took 1 hour 10 minutes, no ICU, home in 2 days, back to work full-time in 8 days. I can only wish you an equally great journey! Best wishes!!
   — Diana T.

January 26, 2001
My doc routinely puts those over 300#, with sleep apnea or other heart or lung disease or any question marks right into ICU. His theory is "better safe than sorry". And hey, they spoil and fuss over you. It was great. It was sad when I was well enough to be moved to the regular ward! LOL! They didn't treat me like I was "special" like they did in ICU!
   — vitalady

July 8, 2001
I was in surgery (lap RNY) for about 2 1/2 hours, in recovery for about an hour and then straight to my room. I was discharged the next day.
   — Dave K.