Vacuum Assisted CLosure

Hello, Sisters!
I am 46, having my TAH, BSO on Dec. 27 because of grapefruit sized ovarian cyst, possible cancer. The surgery is being done by gyn. onc.

I am a 300 pound Chocolate Queen and the surgeon said something about how women my size have problems with the incision opening up. He mentioned vacuum assisted closure but I can't remember if he said he does it at surgery or waits to see if it is necessary when/if the incision opens up.

I did some research on the topic and found that it involves a sponge placed in the incision with a vacuum pump hooked up to it and it sounds painful to change the dressings. I couldn't find anything describing it for immediate use at surgery. I go for my pre-op visit on Thursday and plan to get the details on this scary sounding device!

Has anyone had any experience with vacuum assisted closure or problems with their incision healing up?

Thanks for your time and I have enjoyed browsing!
Chocolate Queen

I have not heard of this, but am certainly going to ask because I too am a full-size woman and want to know all the possibilities.

I do know this, my GYN (who is performing my surgery) said that she would be using staples to close because women of color tend to cheloid. I have had a lot of weight related questions and have been told that as long as I am healthy (no issues with blood pressure, diabetes, etc) that all will be fine.

I'll be interested to see if others have heard of this. In the meantime, best wishes to you on your journey. I don't have a date yet, but seriuosly doubt that I will go before you. I will be interested to "chat" with you post-op.

Blessings on you ....

Thanks, HRHrey.

I am definitely blessed! I don't know why I am going through this but I do know He will be with me.

I will definitely share what I find out about the vacuum assisted closure thingy.

Blessings to you...and like I've been reading here...the waiting is terrible! I have 9 days!!!

Chocolate Queen