Concerned.....

Hi everyone,

Now that my ticker problems have been sorted, my Common Bile Duct has decided to grow and I need to have Gall Bladder surgery.

Saw the Liver Guy last week, unfortunately this cannot be done via laprascopy. Due to the CBD involvement, it's the big scar, bigger op that I'm facing.

I'm quite nervous about having major surgery, right after two heart ops...and with me now "pacemaker dependent".

I asked "how do you operate on someone who's pacemaker dependent?" and he just said "very carefully", as he grinned.

I wasn't grinning, I'm very concerned about another operation.

Does/has anyone know how risky it is to have a major op when PM dependent?

This will be my 3rd op in less than 7 months, if he does it in late August/early September.

He did say he'll only do it if the Cardio Guy "signs off" on it.

Any comments, I'm a bit of a wreck...the pain is awful at times and I can't stay on heavy duty painkillers for long!!

I'll leave off the "I feel fabulous!", cause I'm a tad worried!

Thanks for any comments/concerns/points that I need to know.

Bionic Beat

1 Comments

Had the surgery

by bambi - 2008-07-14 09:07:34

Hi,
I had my gallbladder and appendix removed the old way, by the large vertical incision in my abdomen. This was in 1986, just as the laprascopic kind was on the horizon! I did not have my pacemaker at that time, but I have had 5 major surgeries since having my pacemaker. As far as the gallbladder surgery, it was pretty rough for the first week. Not so much the pain, but the nausea, and my digestion being out of whack for quite some time. I was in the hospital for 3 days and needed 2-3 weeks of taking it easy at home. As for the surgeries after my pacemaker, you can bet your surgeon will not do it if your Cardiologist has any reservations. He will have to send a letter to your surgeon stating that he feels you can or can not withstand the surgery. If he allows it, just make sure the anesthesiologist knows about your pacemaker. He or she will ask detailed questions about your particular reasons for having one. They will double check your chart, and make any adjustments to ensure your safety. You will most likely have careful monitoring in the recovery room. I had a nurse who sat next to my bed the entire time I was in recovery. I have not had any pacemaker related problems during or after my surgeries. If you are concerned about having too many surgeries so close together, make sure you discuss this with both Drs. I don't know if there's a limit or time frame. I hope this helps and you can enjoy a period of good health for awhile! Take care,
Bambi

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You participate in the Pacer Olympics.

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