UPCOMING BYPASS SURGERY

[pitgurl17]

Hi--I am a 40 year old female that has to have a quadruple by-pass surgery and I am scared to death and very terrified of having it. I was wondering if anyone could share some experiences with me--tell me about their surgeries, what is best to do and what not to do--and how the recovery process goes and what to expect with that--any information would be appreciated--I really know nothing but what the doctors have explained--I have to have the sugery on or around 4-23-07 so I would like to be prepared and not be so scared....Thanks!!

[anacyde]

Well, in my family you'd fit right in, bypass surgery in the 40s is almost standard.

I can tell you that my father, his mother and two of his brothers all underwent CABG surgery within a four year timespan.  All did extremely well (my crazy grandmother was cooking Thanksgiving dinner a week later, nuts if you ask me, we should have been cooking for HER but she wouldn't have it).  My father recovered extremely fast and was on a walking regimen very soon after returning home.  His leg was sore, and that was his worst complaint.  It healed very well.

Both uncles also did exceptionall well, with no complications.  My one uncle did have some leg infection problems, but he is also diabetic and was very overwieght.

My grandmother was 73 at the time of her bypass and still did well.  Her biggest complaints were the breathing tube made her throat a little scratchy and the hates her scar.  I figure if she has such minor complaints...they kept her pretty comfortable.

All of them are active and doing quite well.  You'd never know any of them had this done.  They ALL said they couldn't believe how amazing they felt after the surgery - breathing was easier, they could be more active without tiring, it was a new lease on life.  

Though my father and grandmother didn't experience any depression at all, my two uncles struggled with it.  The one who had leg complications was extremely anxious.  I'm happy to report that even there, he has lost a ton of weight, gotten his diabetes under strict control and is more active than he has been in years.  He has also overcome his anxiety.

Point is, these surgeries have very good outcomes.  I know facing all of it seems overwhelming, but the result will be a healthier you and a healthier heart that is able to work without so much stress.  Try not to focus on the details of the surgery, but the benefits and the success rates (which are quite high).

I'm sending good thoughts your way for a successful bypass and a speedy recovery.  Keep us updated and let us know when you come home from surgery ok?

[Papethova]

First look into who your surgeon is going to be.  Look into their education, their experience, etc.  Choose a good surgeon.  Next look to have an off pump procedure if possible.  The use of the heart lung machine introduces additional possible complications and requires a longer recovery period.  Minimizing complications is key to recovery.

Off pump CABG usually is 24 hours in the ICU and then a few days in the hospital.  After surgery ask alot of questions, make sure the nurses are giving you the right medication, ask what each is for.  If you are in pain or nausiated ask for medication.  Follow the directions the respiratory therapist and physical therapist give you.

Although this is major surgery, you can recover and continue the normal life you led prior to surgery.  Medical advances and mediation have come a long way.  Concentrate on getting well enugh to be disharged as soon as possible.

Good luck!!

[Pepperliveson]

Hello I haven't had the surgery myself but my Dad had it when he was 60.  He had the quadruple bypass and also had both carotid arteries bypassed.  I helped him recover and was w/ him every day.  He had a bit of pain in the first few days but was quickly up and walking around the mall for exercise.  He was feeling back to normal pretty quickly and he definitely felt better.  I bet you are a lot healthier than my Dad was when he had the operation - you are 20 years younger and that will make it easier to recover.  Do you have a family history of heart disease or any risk factors for heart disease?  Where are you having the surgery done?

[Brooster]

Your first one. I've had two, it all started back in `91 and I'm still kicking. After all these years I've still got problems but each day is a bonus.
Yes there's some pain involved but I've always thought that my loved ones were hurting more than I.
It helps to have a sense of humour and the belief that there will be better days ahead for you and yours.
Most important, make the changes that will keep you from going for another like I did. A good diet and proper exercise are your friends, don't let them down.
Cheers and all the best.

[ireneo]

I'm so sorry you have to go through this. It's quite reasonable to be scared. I've never had that kind of surgery, only have a friend that had a valve replaced. Different but similar in some ways. She was sore and tired for quite awhile. She was frustrated by the inactivity and lack of energy that followed the surgery. But she got through it and now a year later she's doing great. Do you have friends and family to help you afterwards? You won't be mowing the grass or hauling groceries for a bit. I hope someone writes that's been through it. Take care, let us know how it goes.