Expert: John Pilcher, MD - 9/19/2007

Question
Dr. Pilcher,
My husband is scheduled to have gastric bypass surgery in early nov. My husband is 54 years old and weighs 300 pounds. All of his medical tests, ultra sound,pulmonary tests EKG, carotid artery ultrasound all came back with good results. I am very worried about blood clots regarding the surgery. The doctor said he would put some sleeve type thing on his legs while doing the surgery and would show me how to give him injections ( a blood thinner?) for a week after the surgery. What should he expect after surgery? He is hopefully having the laproscopic procedure. How long should he be out of work. He is a longshoreman. someone told me he will only be able to drink tiny little bits of liquid the first couple of weeks and then baby food for awhile. How will he have any energy. Notice I am the one writing this. He doesn't seem to be concerned or ask any questions. thanks for your help and I look forward to hearing from you.
                                 Linda

Answer
Linda,
I think it is great that you are working to be involved and educated about your husband's upcoming surgery.  Patients definitely have better outcomes in the short term and in the long run if there is a "team" approach at home.

The little bit you have told me about his surgical preparation seems very appropriate.  Your questions are appropriate as well, but I'd prefer not to give you my answers because each program handles these things a bit differently.  I recommend for you to request an appointment for yourself and your husband with the surgeon or one of the program staff and get your excellent questions answered by the folks who will actually be taking care of your husband.  I recommend you write our your questions before the appointment and take the list with you, so that you don't forget anything.

Best of luck for you and your husband!

Dr JP