Epidurals Vs Other Pain Control Means

[NadaMas 6]

Hi Everyone,

I asked this question in another forum & wanted to pose the question here as well:

I have my surgery scheduled w/ Dr. Aceves in Mexicali and he & his team often use epidurals w/ the surgery. My question is for those who had an epidural or for those who did not - Did you notice any general differences between the 2 cases in regards to the level of pain experienced after surgery? I understand that you can only relate your own experience, but thought that you might have noticed how other patients seemed to be handling things - getting up, moving around & walking and general discomfort level if they did not have an epidural with their surgery.

I'm not a good candidate for an epidural due to previous back surgery which left me w/ considerable scar tissue over that section of my spine. I had a c-section & the anesthesiologist insisted on giving me an epidural & lets just say that it was not a good experience. I understand that my issues are due to my specific situation & epidurals are generally a wonderful means of controlling pain.

Anything that you want to share would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Foxbins 625]

I did not have an epidural and I had no pain and no nausea. It was the first surgery I ever had and I expected to be hurting a lot and I was not. I slept and walked most of my three days there. It was uncomfortable to change position in bed and to get in and out of bed but just lying in bed I was not in pain. I'm sure if you tell Dr. A you would prefer general and not epidural he will oblige you unless there is some medical reason he can't.

[NadaMas 6]

Thanks for the reassurance. I appreciate you sharing your experience!

[gramaof4 58]

Dr. Aceves is WONDERFUL his ENTIRE TEAM .... I just had sleeve on Monday Feb 27th....was an hour out of surgery walking up and down the halls. the 2 gals who did not have epidurals moved less swiftly.... but by day 2 we were all making laps....I really had virtually NO PAIN! good luck with you WLS.