My pre-op is tomorrow

Hi everyone!

My pre-op is Thursday, May 24, at 9:00 a.m. That's when I find out what method the surgery will be and tons of other stuff.

Thanks to hyster-sisters I feel pretty well-prepared. I'm posting my list of questions (my own plus relevant ones from the pull-down menus) here in case it might help someone else ... or in case I have forgotten anything and you guys can post some more suggestions for me to add before the appt.!

QUESTIONS TO ASK AT PRE-OP

Basic questions
1. Method of surgery?
If TAH, will muscles be pulled apart or cut?
2. How long will surgery take?
3. Probable length of hospital stay?
4. Tell him of ovary pain, last period, inexplicable right side pain, lower pelvic pain

Surgical questions
1. Bladder “sling” or “tack” necessary/recommended?
2. Cervix removed?
If so, will vaginal cuff shorten the vagina?
3. Appendix removed?
4. Look at other organs for problems/endo on them?
5. Will pathology report be done for removed organs? How long until results?
6. Tummy binder – will I need one? What is it?
7. Will he remove all visible endo?
8. Will pooled blood be diagnosed?
Endo? Pelvic congestive disorder? Have it biopsied for certain diagnosis?

Pre-op questions
1. Bowel prep – can I use the one he gave me for lap with no enema?
2. Anti-nausea drug pre-surgery as with 1st D&C?
3. Order private room? (easier for husband to stay, me to rest, etc.)
On surgical or maternity floor?

Post-op questions
1. Post-surgery pain medication in hospital? (I don’t want morphine.)
2. Post-surgery prescriptions to be prepared to purchase?
3. Post-op dietary changes?
4. Any adjustment required because of loss of prostacyclin?
5. Talking to DH privately outside waiting room (since there will be so many relatives and friends in there).

Recovery questions
1. When can I drive?
2. How long on bedrest?
3. How long off work?
4. Lifting/working restrictions & guidelines?
5. When safe to start tummy-strengthening exercises?
6. How soon will my first follow-up be?

Hormone questions
1. When will hormones start?
2. What are his thoughts on hormones?
I prefer bio-identical – Etrace, Estradiol, or even triest or biest
I prefer all three (estrogen, progesteren, androgen) – refer to articles from Hystersisters if he balks.

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Whaddaya think - am I forgetting anything?

hi rosa, sounds like you're done your homework. I don't see anything you forgotten. Just don't forget your list when you go for your pre op! good luck with your surgery and recovery. jan

Thank you so much for your list. I go to my OBGYN on June 21.