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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 29, 2014 15:23:07 GMT -5
Hi all, heard from Leonie's husband that there is some bleeding, possibly hematoma, they will know more tomorrow. She's back in the hospital and on complete bed rest, no walking. I'm presently researching hematomas, as there's a possibility I might have one as well. I'm draining a lot still, it's very dark red, no change at all and actually the other way, darker. Leonie and I both had hernia repair/component separation/abdominoplasty (apologies for the repeat, but mentioning for lurkers who might just be tuning in). Her husband said once they hear from the doctor, they might then have questions for 'the walking encyclopedias' i.e. that's this place  He's a dear, quite an amazing supportive husband. Let's keep good thoughts for her! |
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Post by west4thavenue on Aug 29, 2014 19:15:40 GMT -5
Thank you for the update, Sharyl. I hate hearing this about both of you. Were you able to contact your surgeon this afternoon?
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 29, 2014 19:50:53 GMT -5
Sharyl and Leonie, just wanted to say I'm thinking about you and pray all is fine. Get better and stay positive...
Kelly
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Post by bboop on Aug 29, 2014 20:09:37 GMT -5
To both of you, I hope you get better soon...rather than later.
Please go to the ER as this is a long weekend and having dark colored blood draining doesn't sound good to me. Nope, not good.
Take care both of you.
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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 29, 2014 21:15:09 GMT -5
Well Leonie is heavily medicated, and she sent an email Should know the source of the bleeding tomorrow; my surgeon determined I''m not bleeding, he did aspirate me in the office,because I had some fluid build-up. This is very common in abdominoplasty work, and particularly in formerly overweight/obese fluid. The body fills up with fluid to balance what's going on, and eventually redistributes. It doesn't take much blood to make it this color, so phew for me. For some people it's slower - that would be me! I also did some reading (google, WebMd of course) and found this good source of info: www.realself.com/question/tummy-tuck-drainage-after-careSo far, for me not worried just yet, a little more reassured, but absolutely would go to ER the second I think something isn't right. I'm g inlad Leonie is in the hospital, her insurance offered 3 days and I had told her to take it, I would have, but my insurance made it outpatient which I think is insane. |
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Post by jpcello on Aug 30, 2014 5:44:51 GMT -5
Well Leonie is heavily medicated, and she sent an email Should know the source of the bleeding tomorrow; my surgeon determined I''m not bleeding, he did aspirate me in the office,because I had some fluid build-up. This is very common in abdominoplasty work, and particularly in formerly overweight/obese fluid. The body fills up with fluid to balance what's going on, and eventually redistributes. It doesn't take much blood to make it this color, so phew for me. For some people it's slower - that would be me! I also did some reading (google, WebMd of course) and found this good source of info: www.realself.com/question/tummy-tuck-drainage-after-careSo far, for me not worried just yet, a little more reassured, but absolutely would go to ER the second I think something isn't right. I'm g inlad Leonie is in the hospital, her insurance offered 3 days and I had told her to take it, I would have, but my insurance made it outpatient which I think is insane. First thanks for the update on Leonie. Second, I had terrible problems with fluid buildup when I had my TT. I was sent home with two drains. One of them fell out about 3 days before he was scheduled to removed them. When I went to his office he removed the other one but I kept building up fluid. The body is supposed to simply reabsorb the fluid and mine wasn't doing it fast enough. I had to go back to his office every other day (at a distance of about 50 miles) for almost 2 weeks until the fluid buildup finally stopped. One time when he was aspirating, he hit a nerve and I almost flew off the table. He was surprised I could feel that. It was a pain in the ass but wasn't an issue at all. My plastics (TT and breast lift) were done as an outpatient. I passed out 30 minutes after they discharged me because I was so dehydrated. Luckily we were staying at a nearly hotel. I passed out in the lobby and there were two nurses walking through. They called 911 and back to the ER where I stayed longer than I did in outpatient recovery. They gave me at least 2 bags of fluids. Crazy insurance. She should have taken the days inpatient but like you said glad she's back in the hospital. |
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Post by Leonie on Aug 30, 2014 9:35:06 GMT -5
Hi folks. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.
I am out of high-care and in a regular ward. My mind is clear and I,m feeling much better.
I have been in hospital all the way. Surgery took 2,5 hours with a cosmetic surgeon and a gastro surgeon. Went straight to high care. 24 hours later I nearly passed while being taken for a walk by the physical therapist. Then we noticed lots f swelling on one side. The surgeon was there within 30min and scheduled surgery for 6pm.
They drained the hematoma,cleaned everything out,but could nt find the source. Woke up back in high care and only got discharged to general ward at 12pm at my insistence. I am feeling great now. Still have drains and catheter. Walked once today, more tomorrow.
My torso is so short! They took off about 6 pounds.
I will probably be here another day or two.
For the hernia he needed a small piece of mesh, but rebuilt the muscle wall. This had better hold!
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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 30, 2014 9:49:54 GMT -5
First thanks for the update on Leonie. Second, I had terrible problems with fluid buildup when I had my TT. I was sent home with two drains. One of them fell out about 3 days before he was scheduled to removed them. When I went to his office he removed the other one but I kept building up fluid. The body is supposed to simply reabsorb the fluid and mine wasn't doing it fast enough. I had to go back to his office every other day (at a distance of about 50 miles) for almost 2 weeks until the fluid buildup finally stopped. One time when he was aspirating, he hit a nerve and I almost flew off the table. He was surprised I could feel that; It was a pain in the ass but wasn't an issue at all. My plastics (TT and breast lift) were done as an outpatient. I passed out 30 minutes after they discharged me because I was so dehydrated. Luckily we were staying at a nearly hotel. I passed out in the lobby and there were two nurses walking through. They called 911 and back to the ER where I stayed longer than I did in outpatient recovery. They gave me at least 2 bags of fluids. Crazy insurance. She should have taken the days inpatient but like you said glad she's back in the hospital. Heard from Leonie, she's been aspirated and already the fluid output has slowed down, so this is good. They still have her on complete bedrest, only one walk allowed lunch time.Not sure how many drains she has, or if she's hooked up to a catheter or had a bowel movement yet. They're keeping an eye on her and I told her not to leave until she is fully stabilized. Ugh! This is exactly what I mean too, crazy they make this outpatient, an abdominoplasty is a LOT of work done, particularly for us former morbidly obese folk. Factor in the hernia repair and the component separation which also far more extensive muscle work than the tightening that might occur in a TT. Or another procedure like breasts which can be very tricky. Thanks for the explanation re: your fluid experience, horrible as it sounded. I went through something similar after my first hernia repair and panni removal. I kept developing internal seromas, which are basically sacs of fluid, and mine were huge. Since I'd already had a major complication and infection and more surgery after my RNY, they were extra cautious and wouldn't aspirate me in the office, they had it done via ultra sound. The first time I filled the equivalent of 2.5 liter soda bottle. I had to have it done 5 more times until the fluid finally redistributed. |
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Post by west4thavenue on Aug 30, 2014 12:41:20 GMT -5
Thank God you are on the mend, Leonie! That was scary! Lots of love to you and so glad you have the surgery...and the repair...behind you!
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Post by Leonie on Aug 30, 2014 14:55:53 GMT -5
Now I am settled in the general ward. Have not needed pain meds this evening yet.
They opened my incision under general anesthesia to drain and look for bleed. It seems better now. 2 drains, catheter, and drip.
They keep wanting to give me blood thinners, then I refuse. I hope it is the right call.
Its bedtime now. Blessings
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Post by newyorkbitch on Aug 30, 2014 15:55:52 GMT -5
Why are you refusing blood thinners???
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Post by Mariposa(Heather) on Aug 30, 2014 17:13:09 GMT -5
I hope you recover quickly Leonie! I am glad you are ok!
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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 30, 2014 17:38:46 GMT -5
I knew it wouldn't be long before you posted! I wanted you to stay all 3 days in the hospital, I'm so sorry this happened. But dearest, I have to ask same, why are you refusing the blood thinners?
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Post by Leonie on Aug 30, 2014 23:46:08 GMT -5
Yeah, it was wrong, the plastic surgeon was upset that they had given the first night it as it could have caused the bleed. Now I am getting the shot to thin the blood.
First doc has just done his morning round. Catheter goes out today and I get to stay a fourth day. I'm producing copious amounts of urine, so he figures I need to get used to moving around lots more. Both drains will go home with me. I finally took pain meds at 1:30 as I could not sleep.
Every day gets better.
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Post by Leonie on Aug 30, 2014 23:59:03 GMT -5
Now I need your help. I need to draft a letter that the surgeon will sign
Insurance is still debating if they will pay for an incisional hernia repair that was caused by a surgery that I paid for myself. At the time the DS was not covered under the plan we were on. I did qualify under a higher plan. Now we are on a plan that does cover the DS.
So what other factors contributed toward an incisional hernia 2 years after surgery? Was obese my whole life, lost 70kg, was exercising with an exercise therapist they paid for.
I do not know how to write this
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Post by Leonie on Aug 31, 2014 12:57:18 GMT -5
It is nearly bedtime here. I am still in hospital, catheter is out, IV is out.
Now I am struggling with spasms/ cramps in my left side. Fortunately doc saw me waking up from the pain. He thinks it is my colon, so I am waiting to try Buscopan. I can imagine how the intestines are trying to find their place after being squashed back in. If this continues, I will insist on a CT with contrast.
I guess it could also be muscles, but feels like gas to me.
Apart from that I am feeling very well. Feel ready to go home.
I have been doing great with fluids, and getting 60-90g protein. Fat is a challenge, but I add 4 pats of butter to everything.
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Post by west4thavenue on Aug 31, 2014 13:05:27 GMT -5
Now I need your help. I need to draft a letter that the surgeon will sign Insurance is still debating if they will pay for an incisional hernia repair that was caused by a surgery that I paid for myself. At the time the DS was not covered under the plan we were on. I did qualify under a higher plan. Now we are on a plan that does cover the DS. So what other factors contributed toward an incisional hernia 2 years after surgery? Was obese my whole life, lost 70kg, was exercising with an exercise therapist they paid for. I do not know how to write this Incisional hernias can occur many years after the surgery. In addition to obesity, possible contributing factors are:
lung problems after surgery use of corticosteroid medications wound infection following surgery any increase in abdominal pressure (improper weight lifting, overexertion, straining to move bowels, pregnancy, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, increased fluid in the abdominal cavity) abdominal trauma diabetes as a predisposing factor
I hope this helps you, Leonie!
XOXO
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Post by west4thavenue on Aug 31, 2014 13:10:13 GMT -5
It is nearly bedtime here. I am still in hospital, catheter is out, IV is out. Now I am struggling with spasms/ cramps in my left side. Fortunately doc saw me waking up from the pain. He thinks it is my colon, so I am waiting to try Buscopan. I can imagine how the intestines are trying to find their place after being squashed back in. If this continues, I will insist on a CT with contrast. I guess it could also be muscles, but feels like gas to me. Apart from that I am feeling very well. Feel ready to go home. I have been doing great with fluids, and getting 60-90g protein. Fat is a challenge, but I add 4 pats of butter to everything. I'm so sorry to hear this! Please feel better soon! |
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ttfulmer
Full Member
Posts: 177
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: December 2013
Surgeon: Dr. K
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Post by ttfulmer on Aug 31, 2014 13:22:43 GMT -5
I am praying for your recovery. Hang in, stay positive, be encouraged that it will get better.
Tina
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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 31, 2014 13:27:28 GMT -5
Hey there well that's a lot going on and I'm glad your progress is forward direction, you're getting unplugged. I'm relieved you're in the hospital. I know it sucks, but I can't express enough how much better it is to be there, then home the first few days after the surgery of this scope. Understand about the blood thinners now. I've experienced some pretty odd spasms and sensations too, still do, but they are easing up. The pain the first week for me was awful, it's much more tolerable now as I near the end of the second week.
Stay on top of the fluids; do you need fat to help keep you from constipating? I know you were struggling with that prior to surgery, also due to the hernia? Pain meds of course can also constipate, as well as the bowels waking up last in any surgery, and ours are pretty annoyed, right being manhandled the way they were. Mine had to be shoved back in too. Re: the fat, if you do need it to keep things 'moving', pats of butter is smart, I do that too. Heavy cream, cream cheese too?
As for insurance...I am far from being an expert, and it varies so much from state to state here in the US, let alone international. I of course just want them to do what is right, based on truth, no tricks, having to 'fake' or create symptoms, rashes,and the other horrible things people have had to resort to in order to get the treatments they need. I'm thinking, based on what you've described about your insurance company that seems to be on board with it all, just trying to figure out how to code it...I would want to lead with long-term morbid obesity being the root of the hernia issues, because it's true. We are highly prone to hernias as morbidly obese people, who have also lost a lot of weight - with or without surgery. So, even though you developed an incisional hernia due to your DS - or did you have another one, hiatal or anywhere else, also not uncommon for them to find when they go in if undetected by tests - your abdominal wall was operating on a deficit. The skin removal as in abdominoplasty is another element of restoring the weakened, deformed abdomen - and a pre-emptive strike to further protect the internal part of the abdomen with the component separation. Maybe they will appreciate the fact that you had 3 procedures done not only at once, thus saving $$ on surgeon/hospital fees, but a huge step for prevention for your future health and costs. The U.S. companies couldn't give a crap about this, but to me it sounds like your company has some kind of conscious. I would want to drill into their system that morbid obesity is a disease, and everything you have endured is a result of that disease. If you need other contributing factors, you can then list some of the other things, like the exercise exacerbating the problem.
Rest, hydrate, thinking of you my sister!
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Post by Leonie on Sept 1, 2014 8:00:14 GMT -5
I am comfortably settled at home, in my very own recliner, drinking my home brewed coffee and feeling great.  The incision is about 75cm long, from hip to hip. My belly-button is gone, but there is a little wrinkle where the od and new scars meet. Doc says he can shape a new one later if I want. I lost a 6 pôund apron and it feels amazing. I have stomach muscles! I can actually pull them in. I will handle them with care for six weeks, then I will hit that gym. Woohoo. Right now I am holding as still as possible, barring short walks. Actually I have less pain than with the DS. Yet I have seen in these few days how much healing can happen in a short time. I still have two drains, and must message the doc with volumes every day. It is not dark, less than yesterday. On a sadder note, hubby has flu. He went to see our doc before picking me up. I think he is worse off than me right now. This has been very stressful for him and I think he is plain exhausted. Fortuñately he is on leave till Thursday and there are lots of meals in the freezer. So, he is sleeping in the other recliner. Right now his mission in life is to look after me. He is being so sweet. Thanks for all the support and love. |
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Post by west4thavenue on Sept 1, 2014 15:35:24 GMT -5
You are a brave lady, Leonie. Best wishes to both you and your DH for full and speedy recoveries.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Sept 1, 2014 17:26:07 GMT -5
Leonie,
You're not supposed to look quite so glamorous after such intense surgery LOL. On a good note, you look wonderful and I think you will feel even more wonderful once healed. Take it easy and get well quick to both you and the hubbie!
Kelly
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Post by meq815 on Sept 3, 2014 10:23:26 GMT -5
You do look glamorous! Glad you're home and on the mend. Congrats!
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Post by Leonie on Sept 3, 2014 11:07:53 GMT -5
Glamorous is an illusion, I promise, but hubby sure did catch the light just right.
I am getting better every day. I have only one spot that cramps every once in a while. I am living in the recliner, but spend half the night in bed. I move gingerly when i get up and down, but it is more about being careful than pain. The plan is to hold super still with a binder until Friday. I can feel how my body needs to be still to knit together. Of course I take walks every two hours, but only to get a snack or go to the loo. Then I see the doctor and the drains hopefully come out. Over the weekend I plan to do more visiting and moving.
Tomorrow hubby is going back to work and I feel quite capable of looking after myself. Right now he puts on my slippers and plays boardgames with me. It is also quite a mission to get all the supporting cushions just so.
I am having daydreams of jeans and board-shorts for swimming this summer.
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Post by mlleelise on Sept 10, 2014 19:16:32 GMT -5
I'm just catching up on all this! Oh my, Leonie, you've been through the mill, as they say! I'm SO very glad that you're doing better since you're home - and I hope your hubby is over the flu by now to. :-) How are you feeling now?
Debra
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Post by Leonie on Sept 11, 2014 1:22:32 GMT -5
Thanks Debra and the rest of the family. Today it is two weeks since surgery. I am recovering really well. Hubby not so much, he did a few days at work, but is home now with a very inflamed throat and no voice. Cannot do long meetings without speaking, so I think he will be working at home once he wakes up. (It is 8am here) I am doing short outings to the shops and kids. I am comfortable in bed at night, can tie my shoes and have long showers. The wound is all closed up, but my abdomen is quite swollen when I take the binder off. I am definitely still in the 'hold still' stage. This recovery is so different from the DS. Because of all the muscle work and skin that must re-attach, you must move as little as possible - just enough to prevent embolisms. Too much and my whole abdomen starts burning and aching. I can imagine this animation where fibers are trying to get glued together, and every time you move the drying glue gets unstuck and new glue is needed. And I am losing weight! I am eating as much protein as I can, but have totally cut out sugar since a week before surgery. I am down nearly eight pounds in spite of swelling on my abdomen. I can feel how my body is coming in line and letting go of the excess. Before, everything was out of kilter. Apart from the non-existing abdominal wall and protruding intestines, my iron was low, protein went down in the month before surgery, and my Vit D was low. No wonder I was gaining weight and feeling miserable. Iron infusions, extra D, Quest bars, and amazing surgeons have made such a wonderful difference.   |
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Post by jpcello on Sept 11, 2014 4:50:38 GMT -5
Leonie - it sounds like you are recovering nicely. I didn't have any hernia work but recovery from my tummy tuck was so much worse than the DS recovery.
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Post by bboop on Sept 11, 2014 20:44:48 GMT -5
Wow you have been through the mill. However, you look great. I'm so glad you are back among the living and are healing nicely...finally.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery and becoming drain less!
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Post by Leonie on Sept 12, 2014 3:15:53 GMT -5
Thanks bboop.
The drains came out a week ago, so liberating.
I am still taking it super easy. If I move and stretch too much - like taking down washing- my whole belly aches and burns. I take walks every hour, visit, cook simple meals, and take long showers. I am quite upright and sleep comfortably in bed with a pillow or two under my knees. For me it has been an easier recovery than the DS. This weekend I am going to try driving. Then this girl will have wings!
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He's a dear, quite an amazing supportive husband. Let's keep good thoughts for her!
