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Having PCNL surgery done - need recovery info

Posted , 4 users are following.

jobelle
jobelle

im having pcnl surgery for staghorn 20mm and would like some info re how difficult is recovery. I’m a senior 60s living alone and will be sent home after one night in hospital. I know about no lifting but is it hard to walk? Were you able to sleep comfortably with bag? I’ll only have bag for one week but I sleep on my back, cannot sleep on sides or stomach. Did you have a special diet? They said I can’t drive for two weeks because I’ll be on painkillers, so I need to order groceries and supplies in advance. I’ll be on my own, no family. Any tips or info would be appreciated. Thank you.

0 likes, 24 replies

24 Replies

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  • frank48025
    frank48025 jobelle

    Posted

    HI jobelle,

    I had the PCNL procedure done this time last year. I had the surgery and the stent was placed on the back. I was able to sleep comfortably but ate jello and apple saice during the day. At night I ate light meals, could not drive for about one week. It will be a big help to have someone trustworthy to assist you if possible. My wife is a saint for caring for me for the first 8 days of my post op. I don't usually take anything stronger than tylenol, but I took their prescribed pain meds and had no major pain.

    I pray that you will have a successful surgery and recovery.

    God bless and keep us posted

    • jobelle
      jobelle frank48025

      Posted

      Frank, thank you for writing and your good thoughts. I forgot all about asking about diet so thanks for that. I have jello but will pick up some applesauce. I’m on my own so have been trying to anticipate what I will need, putting things within reach so I don’t have to lift, stoop or bend. Stocked up on bottled water and herbal tea. I’m glad you were able to drive after a week. I hope I can too. Thanks again for your help and take care. 
  • jobelle
    jobelle

    Posted

    My surgery is tomorrow. I am concerned about the guide wire part of it. When the hospital called to confirm I asked if general anesthesia is used for that part. She said no.

    So, how did you all do with that? I thought everything was done while you were under, now I find out I will be awake lying facedown while they’re putting wires in me. .????? Does it hurt? How long a wait between that part and the stone removal? Do they let you lie on your back in between the two parts? How long is the guide wire procedure? Starting to freak out a little bit. 

    • lesley_ann_53
      lesley_ann_53 jobelle

      Posted

      Hi Jobelle

      I was asleep for all I would call and ask for more information on the procedure as your worried they should have explained it all to you. More than likely they will sedate you Defo call them and ask for info. Good luck this time tomorrow all over take care x

    • sarah87162
      sarah87162 jobelle

      Posted

      Oh my goodness me.

      Hopefully they will have done you by now.

      I was put to sleep before they put me on my front.

      Was not woken up till it was all over.

      God Bless You.

      Take care and keep in touch

      Sarah

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