daVinci w/o Lupron an option?

Hi,
I am 52, have fibroids and an enlarged uterus that is causing pelvic pressure, pain and a surprisingly annoying pinching down below. The largest fibroid is 8cm and there are at least 4 others, one pedunculated. I also have other health issues from Lyme disease which went misdiagnosed for 5 years. It debilitated me in 2000. The daVinci surgery appears to be ideal for me as a long hospital stay will surely mess me up. However, my surgeon said that my small physical size and the large size of my fibroids and uterus complicate things. I have a 12 week size uterus and when I lay down the largest fibroid is up to my belly button. She says they have to go in from above and down to the area and can’t really put holes in my chest to get that angle. * laugh * She suggested doing Lupron for 2 -3 months to shrink the fibroids to a more manageable size.

1) I’ve read a little about Lupron but I’m not clear, can it have lasting after affects?
2) Could another surgeon do the daVinci surgery without doing Lupron?
3) Does anyone know how I find the most qualified daVinci surgeon in the area?
4) Can anyone explain to me what the pinching is? Is it possible that I have a pelvic floor problem?

I SO much appreciate any help anyone can offer. I moderated a patient board chronic fatigue for years so understand the dedication and work involved.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Mary

Welcome to the site! I hope we can offer you some helpful information and support!

First, I strongly recommend that you seek a second opinion before you make any decisions. You can check the daVinci site to find a daVinci surgeon. You can also check www.suggestadoctor.com to see if there are any recommended doctors in your area.

Additionally, since you have other health concerns, I would suggest sitting down and talking to all of them about the situation. I have found having all of my doctors on board before a surgery really helpful! Then the doctors managing my chronic issues could continue to help me manage those issues during the surgery that could cause flares.

When it comes to Lupron, you are going to find a wide variety of responses. There are side effects to consider, though generally they are reversible. Some women do not consider the risks worthwhile, others do.

We do have women on the site who have used Lupron successfully to shrink fibroids to allow for a less invasive surgery. They considered the side effects well worth it. But you would have to weigh your own pros and cons.


You are doing the right thing by asking questions and looking for information before making your decision! While you are doing your research, don't forget to check out our Resource Database!

Thank you for replying Weiser. From your response and your list of health issues I can tell you are familiar with managing multiple doctors. My Lyme disease specialist is not in town but I have discussed surgery with him, my PCP and now I'm deciding on a gyn.

I am curious what is behind your comment "strongly suggest getting a second opinion". I am open to hearing all you have to say. You see I'm living with a health decision I made over 10 years ago so I know that, what you don't know, can hurt you.

Dr S (gyn) said that with daVinci she has to go in 10cm above my uterus and that there isn't room on my body. Today I measured above my belly button which is where the highest fibroid hits me and there appears to be plenty enough room. So I'm trying to figure that out. Plus I'm not sure I can wait the 2 - 3 months. After reading more online yesterday, I realize my prolapsed uterus (12 wks) is likely the cause of the pinching and perhaps hemorrhoids. If your concerns are whether I need a hysterectomy, there's no doubt I do. The question is how, where, who and any other decisions that I'm not aware of.

This isn't an emotional decision for me, I just want to make the right decision. I appreciate your sharing any knowledge you have and pointing me in the right direction. Thank you in advance, for your help.
Mary

See if checking out this link, created by the creator of HysterSisters.com helps explain why I and rest of the staff here feel that a second opinion is vital prior to any major surgery:

Give Me A Second

Whether your need a hysterectomy or not, a second opinion can confirm the method, timing, diagnosis, location for surgery, etc. etc. etc. are all right for you!

	Quote:
Originally Posted by PrairieMary If your concerns are whether I need a hysterectomy, there's no doubt I do. The question is how, where, who and any other decisions that I'm not aware of.

Hi Mary:

My pre-op diagnosis was prolapsed uterus. My first opinion doc (in the ER) said to get a hyst. My second opinion doc said he would remove uterus, cervix & ovaries thru a traditional abdominal incision. My THIRD opinion doc said he would do a vaginal hyst to remove uterus & cervix, and would leave my healthy ovaries.

It's so important to get another medical opinion... this is major surgery! Get smart about your symptoms AND your options, and make the best choice for YOU. I am sending huge cyberhugs