Frustrated!!

OK, once again you may not like what I have to say. . . remember in my last post I said that they didn't close mine b/c of an infection but yours might be because of the nature of the area-colon etc. Anyway, regarding a second opinion those most doctors will be glad to give one pre surgery, I think the majority probably would not involve themselves with "cleaning up somone else's work". I have even read bariatric patients on here post that when they have moved bariatric surgeons will not take them on as new patients b/c they did not perform their original surgery and they have to travel all the way back to their old doctor where they used to live. An alternative to getting a totally new doctor involved is to see if the plastic surgeon who initially operated on you and obviously is accepting no responsibility for your condition will at least agree to close you up.

Hon,

Dr. Gupta listed off some very good reasons why she is hesitant to bring me back into surgery: me on the coumadin and my PI results all over the map (blood thinners doesn't do well with surgeries), It's only been 6 weeks since I've been out of the coma, I've already had 5 surgeries since 9/24 so my body is worn out, the intestines are still swollen to the point that I look like I'm ~5-6 months pregnant. It is out of concern for my well-being that Dr. Gupta is backing out of closing me up. It has nothing to do with the colon...especially since this opening is between the sternum and pubic and the intestines are completely within my body now with healthy tissue between them and the air. I do appreciate Dr. Gupta's concern and because of the upmost respect and faith I have in her, I would never go see another surgeon.

That said, up until yesterday, Dr. Gupta had told me & my family repeatedly that she WOULD surgeically close me up. Yesterday was the very first indication that she wouldn't. Perhaps she saw something that concerned her yesterday that wasn't evident 2 weeks ago...? I don't know. Whatever it is though, I just have to accept that it is what she feels is best for my well-being.

Oh...Dr. Bergman, the plastic surgeon, has offered to assist in closing me up. Everything with the intestines is totally out of her field of expertise but she has offered to help as far as she is able. I will just have to wait until I can afford to have her remove the huge scar that I am going to wind up with. That's about all I can do. Now...am I disappointed in how it all is turning out? Yes. Was I extremely upset about it yesterday? Yes. And did I turn to my friends to vent out that frustation? Yes. Do I expect any of you to resolve the issue for me? No. I repeat, No. Will I get over it and accept it as it is? Yes..in fact, I'm almost there.

Sherri

Hey there sweetie....I haven't been on here much lately with my fathers surgery and all ...If you do have Dr, Bergman assist if Dr Gupta does change her mind about closing you up...ask for the guy who put me under. He was really wonderful and I am sure you could get a different person than the gal you had. you have been thru so much and I  think you could persuade Dr. Bergman to assist without paying additional charges. Hang in there Hon and I will keep you in my prayers. Hugs! Marianne

Well, it sounds like you are feeling better about everything today.  I know how frustrating and depressing this all must be for you.  How will this affect your job?  Hearing all your past history I am sure you are correct and Dr. Gupta is looking out for your best interest.  You must be the most positive woman in the world to even want another surgery! Hope your positive spirit keeps buoying you up so you will stay strong and heal faster!

Hi Sherri, Sorry to hear that you've gotten so much bad news lately.  Have you talked to Dr Bergman about what Dr Gupta has said?  Maybe she will give you a break on the cost since you've already paid so much for so little.  I'd definetely talk to her. Good luck with it all.  I'll keep you in my thoughts.