Hi, all! I had my surgery on Tuesday, the 9th and came home Sunday. Everything went perfectly and I had no pain except when I coughed! My anesthesiologist sed an epidural that was in until 24 hours before I went home and let me tell you, it was fabulous. He used about 60% less general anesthesia and from the conversations I've had so far, I didn't lose any time. I wasn't dopey but was very relaxed and like I said, no pain except when I coughed.
I had a bariatric bed which was also great. It's an air bed with controls to put you in just about any combination of positions you can imagine. I have a bad back and after five nights and six days on my back in that bed, my back felt great! I slept great and even though I was awakened frequently, I went right back to sleep. In edition to the epidural regularly giving me medication, I could press the button for more if I needed more.
They also gave me torredal shots every 6 or eight hours, I don't remember exactly, but I rarely was wondering "is it time for my shot?"
The nurses on the floor where all doctor Klein's patients are have had special training to take care of his patients and they were absolutely wonderful. Sweet, kind and so thoughtful.
The whole experience was very, very positive for me. The only real misery was no liquids on Tuesday, only ice chips Wednesday until Friday morning when they took out the NG tube. I'll tell you, I was sure thrilled to get that sucker out!!
I've had more pain since I got home and finding a comfort zone in the bed took a few minutes, but I did ok. I've had a hard time finding real comfortable seating in the house but it's not the couch! My two good desk chairs with my feet up -- one in the office and one in the living room -- are really the most comfortable places for me
I have been up since 10:00 am and it's now 7:00 and I am tired, but by no means exhausted. Now, I haven't been doing anything today -- some business by phone, a couple of emails, and a lot of visiting with my friend who is hre taking care of me, not to mention the constant sipping of water and protein liquids but suprisingly, I am not particularly tired.
I am so grateful for everything, including all your support. I'll be back soon but I am ready to get my feet up!
Love to you all...Ruth