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Fantastic!

Posted , 8 users are following.

sue59299
sue59299

I,m a qualified nurse/midwife with Theatre experience, but I was still a bit wary of having a THR under Epidural.  I had this 14 days ago and I just want to reassure anyone who is nervous, that this op can be a good experience.

the epidural was painless and I laid on my good side.  I was told I would just drift off to sleep and I did!  I heard or felt nothing and woke up as normal. No nasty side effects from a GA to cope with!  Ladies, if you are asked if you would like a urinary catheter.....say Yes!  It's fitted when you are asleep and you avoid the unpleasant business of having to pee in the bed, even with the pads provided.  I had one uncomfortable day and am now pain free and walking around the house without crutches.  I take one crutch out with me, in case I slip.  I was home within 48 hours, which is pretty speedy!  Please.... If you need it doing, go for it! It will change your life.

0 likes, 25 replies

25 Replies

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  • moi88935
    moi88935 sue59299

    Posted

    what type of approach did youy got
    • sue59299
      sue59299 moi88935

      Posted

      Just a standard lateral, but it is minimally invasive.  A short 8" wound with no sutures.  Brilliant.
    • veronica58657
      veronica58657 sue59299

      Posted

      What is a minimal invasive please and do you know if they do it in London uk?
    • catrin46108
      catrin46108 veronica58657

      Posted

      Yes they do aerobics. I'm having it at Stanmore orthopaedic hospital next week. I think it's standard almost everywhere now
    • catrin46108
      catrin46108

      Posted

      Sorry auto correct changed your name from Veronica to aerobics!!!!!
    • sue59299
      sue59299 veronica58657

      Posted

      It just means that they operate in a smaller area really.  The incision is smaller than normal too.  That,s all I know about it really!  I am in Kent, so I would imagine it's done in London also.

      my surgeon is German and is an expert in hips and knees, so a lot depends on who does it for you.

       

       

  • catrin46108
    catrin46108 sue59299

    Posted

    Sue are you in the UK? I'm having mine done next Friday and am frankly terrified. Not  sure if having  GA the surgeon said it would be up to the aneathesist. Good to know too that you are making progress. How old are you? I'm 54 and have had mild dysphasia all my life - although I have only just found this out
    • sue59299
      sue59299 catrin46108

      Posted

      Yes, I live on Romney Marsh.  Please don,t be terrified.  This is why I posted my experience, so that anyone who is terrified is hopefully reassured!   I am 66 and have always had OA, RA and Lupus!

      when you go in, ask the Sister if you can discuss the Spinal anaesthetic with the anaesthetist.  They would probably come and see you anyway.

      i,m sure you,ll be fine once you are in.  It's the waiting that makes you nervous.  Good luck!  If I can help any more I would be happy to.

  • jennifer2000
    jennifer2000 sue59299

    Posted

    Hi Sue,

    Glad to hear you had a positive experience. Totally agree re the catheter it was great being able to drink as much water as I liked and it took care of itself 😉

    Jennifer, uk

  • catrin46108
    catrin46108 sue59299

    Posted

    I will ask Sue I went to an enhanced recovery session at the hospital -a highly regarded orthopaedic hospital in London and no mention was made of a catheter said would hav to use bedpans. I did wonder how I will manage given the 90 degree rule
    • sue59299
      sue59299 catrin46108

      Posted

      It's nearly impossible to use a bedpan, which is why the nurses pack the inco sheets and pads around you.  It is the most sensible way to do it.  I just could not face being soggy as you can,t have a shower!  It's worth asking about the catheter.  You are the patient and unless there is a good medical reason why you can,t have one your wishes should be respected.
  • ian97093
    ian97093 sue59299

    Posted

    Thanks Sue going to see the specialist on Monday. this sounds good to know up front...
    • sue59299
      sue59299 ian97093

      Posted

      Best of luck!  The catheter discussion bypasses you!  Men are so lucky!
  • barbara17317
    barbara17317 sue59299

    Posted

    I had an epidural as well and a catheter fitted.  It was all great.  I was told to drink lots of water and I did because there were no worries about bedpans, commodes etc.  Besides that I find hospital air is very drying and you need to drink more, so it worked out very well for me.  The catheter was taken out after 24 hours and I was able to walk to the toilet myself then.  Good job all round.  Best wishes to you.
    • sue59299
      sue59299 barbara17317

      Posted

      Doing it that way is all good is,nt it?!  I would not hesitate to have it done again.  Best wishes to you too.
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