HELP!! TRAVELING FOLLOWING MAJOR SURGERY

[Kathi Kimmerle]

I had "open" abdominal surgery last week to remove an ovary, and for intestinal exploration of endometriosis. I have a 7" scar that appears to be healing nicely. (I had my staples out a couple of days ago.)

I am supposed to travel by air this coming week, which will be just 15 days after my surgery. The flight will only be about 2 1/2 hours in duration, and then I will have a 2 hour car ride. Then, of course, it will be the same situation returning home.

My doctor knows that I am traveling, and made no mention of possible complications. However, my friend said I have a moderate risk for DVT. My friend also said that her doctor told her not to travel for at least four to six weeks following major abdominal surgery. Is this true? If so, why has my doctor made no mention of this to me?

Please help! I'm scared to death! I don't want to cancel my trip, but I don't want anything horrible to happen either! What to do?? What to do??

Thanks for your help!!

[kevinmd]

I'll be away until July 5th - the forums will reopen then.  

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[Kathi Kimmerle]

Thank you both for your help! I truly appreciate it! I've placed a call to my doctor's office, and will discuss this matter with him - in detail - today!

Best regards...

[surgeon]

I have generally felt restrictions have mostly to do with one's particular stage of recovery; meaning, if you feel well enought, it's ok. However, I would recommend getting well-fitting compression hose, and make a point of flexing your calves frequently during the flight and car trip.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I certainly would clarify with your physician.  Yes, there is an increased risk of clot from the surgery, and with any long trip this can also increase the risk from a clot.  As long as you are informed and comfortable with the risk, this decision should be made in conjunction with your personal physician.

Here is an excerpt from the Merck Manual:
"Air travel is contraindicated for patients who have or are likely to develop pneumothorax (eg, who have large pulmonary blebs or cavities) and for those in whom air or gas is trapped (eg, those with an incarcerated bowel, recent [< 10 days] chest or abdominal surgery, or intraocular gas injection), because even modest expansion may cause pain or stress tissue."
http://www.merck.com/mrkshared/mmanual/section20/chapter283/283a.jsp

I would discuss your concerns with your personal physician to ensure it is safe to travel.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b