pre-op appt questions....

HEARTONMYSLEEVE · March 27, 2010

My pre-op appointment is next Thursday and I am trying to make a list of questions so as not to forget anything. I have seen a few list like this compiled on the site. Can someone post it again or rewrite it for me? I just know I need a list or else I will get in there and forget every question I had. I become completely stupid when I get nervous. Thanks everyone for your help.

Edited March 28, 2010 by HEARTONMYSLEEVE

Lookinupin2010 · March 28, 2010

My preop visit was LAST Thursday. I had made a list of questions:

How big is the bougie

When will the drain be removed (my Dr. doesn't use one)

How much weight did my Dr. want me to lose

Can I take my Celebrex up till surgery (answer was yes, but not after)

How long will surgery take (normally 3-4 hours)

Actually, most of my questions were answered by him before I even got a chance to ask them.

HEARTONMYSLEEVE · March 28, 2010

Thank you for the reply. I had some of those down already but not the one about the drainage tube. I want to know everything i can before surgery on the 6th.

Tiffykins · March 28, 2010

Leak/complication stats?

Bougie size and do you oversew?

Goal weight?

Pre/Post op diet?

Will I have access to a psych and nutritionist if needed during my recovery?

Aftercare, labs are pulled when, and what labs are pulled?

How many nights in the hospital or outpatient procedure?

Leak tests do you do them, and how many?

How many sleeves have you performed?

Who do I contact for emergencies? Do you have a PA/Nurse to help if I can't get in touch with you?

Make sure to ask if you can continue taking your meds/prescriptions and if you are on any time released/extended release meds, most surgeons recommend switching to the regular release for a few weeks post op due to the coating on XR tablets.

Vitamins which ones should I take, and when can I start taking them? I have posted a chart with Vitamin comparisons so you can see which are best for your needs post op.

Most of us need a high quality/complete Multivitamin, B12, and Calcium citrate.

Do you prescribe an acid reducer or PPI? Nexium/Prilosec/Protonix/Prevacid are the most common ones prescribed post-op even if you didn't have reflux before surgery, we can experience acid issues post op because our tummies are not used to making a smaller amount, so it overproduces acid like we still have a big stomach.

Hope these help. Good luck with your consult.