Question:
Is RNY, open and or Lap any riskier than the 2 C-sections I've had??

   — Kai B. (posted on May 21, 2001)

May 21, 2001
Both C-section and RNY surgeries are considered "major" surgeries and carry essentially the same risks as any other abdominal surgery: the potential for blood clots, infection, and post-op pneumonia. Fortunately these complications are not common, and good care by the surgeon and cooperation on the part of the patient play major roles in a successful surgery and post-op course. Whether you have a lap RNY or an open RNY, it is still considered a major surgery. The primary differences are that the size of the incisions, degree of discomfort, and the recovery period will be significantly less with the lap procedure. Operating times will vary from surgeon to surgeon...my C-sections took approximately 30 minutes and my lap RNY lasted one hour. The main thing that every patient can do to help avoid blood clots and pneumonia post-op is to cooperate with the surgeon and nursing staff's expectations for you to cough/deep breathe frequently and to get up and start moving about as soon as possible. When lying in bed, try to move your legs frequently and reposition yourself every hour or two instead of staying in one position for long periods. If you did well with surgery and anesthesia during your C-sections, you likely will do just as well with the RNY. Good luck!
   — Diana T.