The after surgery concerns

[kaz]

OK, so I'm going to do it, now I want to know from those of you who have been thru it!
Mayo Drs are going to transfer and graft, take the sural nerve from my left leg for "patch cord". They say avg 3 day in hospital.
My concerns are what will the left leg feel like? Will there be pain in my right arm if I can't feel alot anyway? Is it bed pans again? Anyone have the myelogram at Mayo? I know the procedure, trying to imagine me on my stomach, I've barely been on my side in 5months. Ugh, I sound like a whinner, it's just I'm starting to feel stronger after the accident and to have another surgery is hard to gear up for, this will be #7, oh well that sounds better, lucky number 7!:)

[EllenB]

Hey - congrats on choosing Mayo - I don't think you can do better. Mayo used my son John's sural nerves also, several years ago, for his surgeries. Ultimately the only numb spot he had was about the size of a quarter, on the outside of his foot.

One I can remember, though, is that the healing was a little bit tricky around John's ankle. That was because it was about impossible for him to keep movement of his foot at a minimum, so the incision took awhile to heal.

John had the myelogram done there, too. He got through it fine even though I don't think he'd volunteer to have it again. Just keep in mind that you're in great hands at Mayo, in every way.

Keep us posted as things progress, and take care,

Ellen

[Alan]

I had a muscle & nerve graph & transfer at the Mayo on Feb 16th 2006. Yes, you will be in the hosp. at least 3 days. The worst part was being in "The Hot Room" for the 1st 24 hrs. They say it's neccessary for the healing process.I'm not sure if you will be in one. No, it didn't include bed pans for me. The drugs will be back!!!!! As I am recovering I am feeling pain again in my arm. My left leg feels fine,No problems.
The mylogram isn't as bad as it sounds.
I'll be back at the Mayo on Dec. 6th for another check up.
Good luck & keep me posted.
Alan
P. S. talk with the docs about pain meds. They'll take care of ya

[EllenB]

Alan is right about the first couple days after a muscle transfer. You'll be in the ICU so there is one nurse per two patients, just to keep a closer eye on things. The temperature is kept uncomfortablly high, to promote more blood flow to the transferred area. If you have family or friends in the ICU room keeping you company, they need to pack for a couple days at the beach...

Ellen

[kaz]

I'll have to clarify with Drs, but I'm not expecting any muscle transfers. Just the cut up the back/side of my left leg and a lengthened cut from midclavicle to elbow joint. I have scars there already Dr Spinner thought her could use one of 'em and extend it. I have to ask staples or stiches? Thanks Alan, saying the myelo not as bad as I expect. And good luck on your follow up appt. the 6th!


Message was edited by: kaz

[Alan]

On the back of my legs were staples. They said that this was necessary because it would take too long to do the stiches & they were working fast with all they had to do.

I didn't stay in a handicap room so I can't answer your questions. We stayed at the Staybridge Suites (across from St. Marys'.) They have very nice rooms & had a complimentary meal at night ready for all of the guests to enjoy. We would stay there again.

Alan