RNY Lap ended up OPEN
Hey, y'all. I'm posting right before going to bed. I went in on 5/4 for an RNY Lap and gallbladder removal, but there was a problem with the small bowel connection and I ended up with a 5 in*****ision as well. Not a full open incision, but certainly enough! Dr. Malik is an incredibly gifted surgeon and is skilled in laparoscopic, so I am confident he would not have cut unless it was absolutely necessary. In fact, another surgeon may have had to resort to a full open with a 12 in*****ision, so I am grateful for him and his skills.
I was released on Saturday the 8th, even though I did spend almost two days in ICU. Barium results were fine. Had some fluid around the lungs and got meds for that and treatments from a pulminologist. Went off pain meds and on to Tylenol only on the 12th. Moving slowly, but moving none-the-less. My mother makes sure I walk several times daily and also makes sure I get up, put on my makeup and have an "outing" every day to keep up my spirits. Our first outing was just to Eckerds, but the point has been to get out. We've gone out to eat several times, with them always making sure there is a soup on the menu I can have on my liquid diet. Head hunger is a real issue - as is the desire for a cigarette - but I'm doing OK. I'll get through both cravings eventually.
My first follow-up on Thursday showed a loss of 9 pounds in 9 days. I'm able to get in up to 60 ounces of fluids with no problem, but protein is an issue. All protein drinks, powders, etc. with SPLENDA leave a horrid aftertaste and make my stomach uneasy. I'm OK with Sacharrin and other artificial sweetners, but most drinks and powders are made using Splenda!
My friend from New Bern (Linda aka Darnell) brought my dog up so I could see him. While here, we saw blood in his urine. Tests revealed he has a large stone and requires surgery as well. I'll be scheduling his surgery and caring for him after his surgery once I can get back home to Greenville. That depends on when I can drive. I'm not sure I feel comfortable driving now, as I still have a fair amount of pain. I'm aiming for Tuesday or Wednesday - about the time I get to move to pureed foods.
Please continue to keep me in your prayers. I know it is prayer that has gotten me this far in so short a time. I actually managed to shave my legs last night! It was a balancing act, but I did it! At only 11 days out and with an incision! Prayers are certainly part of that....and I thank all of you who have had me in your prayers.
mpf 
Paige,
What wonderful news! I am glad you are feeling better now. I am 9 weeks post op and still having trouble getting the protein drinks down! You may want to make your own protein drinks with powdered skim milk if you don't have a problem with dairy. I use 8 ounces of skim milk and 1/3 cup of powdered nonfat milk as a smoothie base. You can add sugar free instant breakfast if you want or add your own sweetener and some frozen berries and blend it for a high protein fruit smoothie. I have also used 1/2 a banana, ice, and some peanut butter for something different. Hope this helps!
Liz
Most Active
Recent Topics
