InterStim Implant Surgery was a HUGE success for me

[msgrigioilcavallo]

I don't get on MedHelp very often anymore but want to update you on my InterStim Implant surgery.

On August 5, I underwent the InterStim Implant surgery.  (I had the testing phase done on July 1.)

It has been 99.5% successful for me and I just can't begin to tell you how awesome it has been.  I had general anesthesia as the Dr. made an incision to place the stimulator battery pack.  I have alot of problems with my right hip/buttock area so, even though the lead wire was inserted on the right side, he was able to place the battery pack on the left hand side.  He had to create a tunnel from the lead wire over 6 inches to the pack but that's alright with me.

I kept taking the pain pills from the Friday evening until Sunday evening and slept 80% of the time.  I stayed in bed lying on my right side for 9 days.  On the 10th and 11th days, I sat up for half the day and my behind was pretty sore but I felt it was time to sit.  I sat in my wheelchair anytime I sat.  On the 12th day, I began sitting all day long.  

My mom is terminally ill and had some flooding in her house this past Monday, so Tuesday I had to go to her place and move some things off of a bed in the flooded room.  I think I bent over a little too much because my tailbone area is very sore tonight.  I did have a bladder accident as I was getting out of my car tonight after church.  This was the first accident I have had since August 4th.  I was very upset but I'm thinking that's going to happen on occasion.  I couldn't ask for better results.

I am anxious to see what the long term effect well be.  For right now, I'm highly suggesting it for anyone who has anykind of neurological disorders.

msgrigioilcavallo

[Lulu54]

Thanks so much for giving us this update.  Very few PwMS have had this implant done but I sure get tempted at times.    Would you kindly give us an update every once in a while - I am curious to know how your incontinence reacts once your body has completely healed.

Lulu

[twopack]

WOW!  I'm so happy to hear this good report.  Good news is always appreciated in general but it is especially meaningful to learn that there are workable solutions to ease the burden urinary symptoms bring to PwMS.  

I'm delighted to celebrate your personal success with this procedure as well.  It's so nice when we can share positive stories instead of just the myseries of life with MS.  Thanks for stopping in to update your adventure.

As for the accident, it would seem that sometimes flooding begets flooding.  I imagine it would take a bladder of iron to resist the temptations and inspiration of walking about a flooded room!

I'm sorry to hear you have been given confirmation your time with Mom will be ending.  I hope you can enjoy every remaining moment you have together and carry precious memories of joy and love into the future.

Mary