Myotomy and the future (CARA)

[Guest guest]

Hi Cara,

 

While most people look forward to the myotomy as an operation intended to make

them swallow better, ironically I understand your apprehensions to not come out

of this operation swallowing worse.  Since the main purpose is to extend the

" useful life " of your E, you may not know for years whether or not the operation

was a " success. "

 

What we can all agree on is that you are doing the right thing, at the right

time, with the right surgeon. We can only look forward from this point on. In

the last few months you have heard it all and the day we have talked about has

finally arrived. 

 

Cyndee and I wish you a smooth and uncomplicated recovery where you take just

one day at a time.  Going forward, and you've read it before, just make sure

that you continue under a doctor's care and guidance.  I believe that if take

judicious care of yourself, that this will be the last operation on your

esophagus.

 

________________________________

From: spotoca <cspoto@...>

achalasia

Sent: Sat, October 9, 2010 10:28:58 AM

Subject: Quick myotomy questions

 

So I am leaving Monday night to go to Pittburgh. My parents are coming today to

watch my boys until I come home.

I know I need to bring a pillow with me for bumps in the car and on the plane.

But I have some other Q's:

Where are the lowest incisions, as in, what type of pants will I be able to

wear? Will the pants cut into any incisions and cause pain? Trying to decide

what clothes to bring.

What type of energy level will I have 3 days post op? I know I can't lift

anything more than 10lbs but will I be able to do light housework? (i.e. clean

up toys and the kitchen?)

And will I feel good enough to get out of the house and take my kids to school -

even if I don't lift them?

I am more than aware of the soft foods diet for a while until I graduate on to

solids. I hear that Dr. L is more aggressive with this, but we will see. Not

worried too much unless I can't swallow at all. But lets not go there....

Anything else that I need to know, any little tips or tricks that helped you

through it?

Praying for good swallowing, no reflux and no spams. Not sure about those spams

since I haven't had one in YEARS and my E is so stretched out. I wonder if that

affects it at all?

Thanks for all of your advice!!

Cara