Question:
Is someone more at risk than others for developing a pulmonary embolism?

This is one of my biggest fears about having this surgery. I guess because this is the highest reason for death related to this surgery. I was just wondering if there was a bigger risk or lesser risk with certain people. Is there anything to do before the surgery to cut your risks down also? I know they do everything they can in the hospital to prevent them, but is there anything you can do pre-op, also.    — Pam R. (posted on October 8, 2002)

October 8, 2002
Pam, I had a pulmonary embolism when I was in the hosptial with pancreatitis. I was because I was in the hospital for 3-5 weeks without getting out of bed and they never put any stockings on me. If you get up and move right after your surgery you have less risk. The Dr. said I am at a higher risk that is whey they had me see a pulmonologist before they will approvel my surgery. I'm scared sure, but the doctor said if I don't do something about my weight I may not make it another 5 years. That's scarier to me. There is a blood test they can do to see if you are at high risk for clotting. If the numbers are low there is a less chance, if they are high you are at higher risk. I don't know if they do this test for everyone. You might ask your doctor. Good luck and just move around a lot after surgery.
   — Sharon L.

October 8, 2002
Hello Pam - I asked this same question about 4 weeks ago, on the message board. I rec'd a ton of information from postops and preops, some of them nurses. It's probably too much info to post to this board, but if you'd like it, please send me an email and I'll be happy to forward it to you. I combined ALL the information I rec'd into ONE document so it could be easy to share with others. If you'd like the info, just click on my name (on this Q&A) once my profile loads click on my email address. Please reference "WLS" or "Bloodclots" so that I know NOT to delete the email. Goodluck on your journey to a healthier and thinner you! Hugs -
   — [Deactivated Member]