Vena Cava Filter Removed

Feb 04, 2009

Yesterday I had a vena cava filter removed. The device was implanted the day I had my open RNY. So much has changed in my life since that day. It seems a distant lifetime ago that I was having the surgery. I was concerned that the physicians would not be able to remove the filter. I was told it was no big deal if it stays in but I really wanted the thing out. Why?? It was something left over from my old life. I don't want to ever forget where I as far as my health, I will never forget this, but I don't want to have things left in my body from this past. I needed the filter becasue I was so heavy that I was at a high risk for blood clots.

I saw the nurses who were there on the day I went in for surgery. They couldn't believe the changes that I have gone through. I try to be humble and modest but I love hearing the comments! It doesn't give me a big head - it motiviates me to be a better person. A better me, a better husband and a better father.

I had to be at the hospital at 7:30 to check in. Once that was done I was asked to put on a hospital gown. An IV was started - which has always been difficult for the nurses but today the insertin went very well! The doctor came in and explained the procedure. I was told not to exercise for a few days and to lay low for 24 hours and to not drive for a couple of days. The nurse told me this particular physician (I don't remember his name) was the best at fishing these things out. That reassured me greatly.

I sat waiting with Jocelyn for a few more minutes and then I was wheeled down to the radiology ER. I chatted with the assistants for a few minutes and then the nurse put me to sleep. I remeber coming back as they were finishing up. The nurse told me that the doctor had some difficulties but had just latched the filter. The filter was placed through the jugular vein on 9/22/08 and implanted at the vena cava junction which is about 12" inferior to the insertion point in my neck. The filter was also removed through a cut in my jugular vein. I could feel the thing being pulled out - it was a very weird sensation and slightly uncomfortable when it was pulled out. I then fell back asleep. I don't remember going back to my room.

I had to wait in the recovery area for 2 hours before Jocelyn could drive me home. I guess when I was in recovery I spent my time singing and flapping my arms. I guess I entertained everyone there with "Fly Like an Eagle" and "867-5309" along with some of my own compositions. Jos of course was very sensitive to my sedated condition and laughed and video taped me.

Jos said after I sang for a while I slept for about an hour. I then woke up and Jos drove me home. The staff at Methodist were great as usual.

I was quite sore once I was at home. I also spent much of the day sleeping on and off which is out of character for me. This morning I was still quite sore. I am not able to turn my head. Tomorrow I get to take the dressing off.  I am just glad to have the thing out of me!

Peace & Love

jb

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