Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to forum)

[Guest guest]

Chelsea,

Good luck tomorrow!!!! You will be just fine. The laproscopic heller myotomy

is really not a big deal as far as surgeries go. My C section was much more

invasive and took me longer to heal.

However, I understand your concern. I too was diagnosed in my early twenties

after having suffered for almost 5 years. My Achalasia progressed slowly and I

compensated until I could no longer drink water without regurgitating it. Back

then in 1996 we chose to do the dilitation first. It was successful for about 2

years but again I chose to ignore the tightening that came back and just chugged

water to get my food down. Since food was passing with the water I decided

everything would be fine. I waited 14 years to do something about it. By then my

esophagus was very dialated and sigmoid in shape.

I had my myotomy in October 2010 by Dr. Luketich at UPM (Pittsburgh). I was in

the hospital for about 55 hours (2.5 days). Bring a pillow for your abdomen, it

will help you walk and also during your travels will help to buffer any movement

that may affect your incisions. That was the best advice I got.

i was off all pain meds 2 days after I left the hospital. the only pain I had

was in my left shoulder. This is common with a myotomy and is considered to be

referred pain from the surgery site (LES).

i was on a liquid diet for 10 days post op and then soft solids for 3 months. i

was also not able to lift anything more than 10lbs for 3 months. If I was

working at a desk job at the time, i would have been able to go back with in 1

week.

however, i was and still am a full time mom of twin boys. This was harder and I

needed help with the kids. But I was back to normal for the most part in 2

weeks.

You are so young and you will bounce back from this in no time. I wish you all

the best and keep us posted. I can't wait for your swallowing to improve!!!

Cara

>

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

[Guest guest]

I am so glad that Cara (Spotoca) responded to your message.  Reading about you,

Chelsea, was a little like reading about her a year ago.  You wrote:

 

" I've put off treatment for some time because, even though it's uncomfortable to

live this way, I'm afraid of permanently altering my body and possibly screwing

things up even more. "

 

Cara could have told you more about herself.  She waited, and waited, and then

was told that she should probably have an esophagectomy, since by waiting so

long her esophagus went mega (i.e. became extremely dilated). Very often (but

not always), by delaying surgery you might bery well be altering your body and

possibly screwing things up even more, to " borrow "  your words and concerns.

 

So, go with confidence that you are doing the right thing. While the surgery

will not " freeze your esophagus in time, " if you take care of it

post-surgery,the chances are that you will slow down its deterioration and

restore your ability to eat and drink and not have to do the little " tricks "

that many of us have developed as a way of coping, which can actually make

things worse by putting off the inevitable (the Heller Myotomy).

 

From: spotoca <cspoto@...>

achalasia

Sent: Monday, May 30, 2011 7:06 PM

Subject: Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to forum)

 

Chelsea,

Good luck tomorrow!!!! You will be just fine. The laproscopic heller myotomy is

really not a big deal as far as surgeries go. My C section was much more

invasive and took me longer to heal.

However, I understand your concern. I too was diagnosed in my early twenties

after having suffered for almost 5 years. My Achalasia progressed slowly and I

compensated until I could no longer drink water without regurgitating it. Back

then in 1996 we chose to do the dilitation first. It was successful for about 2

years but again I chose to ignore the tightening that came back and just chugged

water to get my food down. Since food was passing with the water I decided

everything would be fine. I waited 14 years to do something about it. By then my

esophagus was very dialated and sigmoid in shape.

I had my myotomy in October 2010 by Dr. Luketich at UPM (Pittsburgh). I was in

the hospital for about 55 hours (2.5 days). Bring a pillow for your abdomen, it

will help you walk and also during your travels will help to buffer any movement

that may affect your incisions. That was the best advice I got.

i was off all pain meds 2 days after I left the hospital. the only pain I had

was in my left shoulder. This is common with a myotomy and is considered to be

referred pain from the surgery site (LES).

i was on a liquid diet for 10 days post op and then soft solids for 3 months. i

was also not able to lift anything more than 10lbs for 3 months. If I was

working at a desk job at the time, i would have been able to go back with in 1

week.

however, i was and still am a full time mom of twin boys. This was harder and I

needed help with the kids. But I was back to normal for the most part in 2

weeks.

You are so young and you will bounce back from this in no time. I wish you all

the best and keep us posted. I can't wait for your swallowing to improve!!!

Cara

>

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

[Guest guest]

Hi! I totally feel your story. I was 34 when I had my Hellers. Are you

getting the wrap?

Details are not as sharp as they were 6 years ago when I had my wrap done, but

I know I was out of the hospital in less than 24 hours, and eating and drinking

anything in 20 hours post op.

I was out of work two weeks but probably could have pushed to be back in one. I

remember lots of diareha! Wounds were sore but not awful.

Keep in mind that although this surgery is a life saver/life changer, you will

still have Achalasia. As your E " settles " over time you may still have some

swallowing issues.

I am 6 Years out of the procedure, and sometimes it takes a little water, but

I eat any any all things!

Good luck tomorrow and let me know if you have any other questions.

Vinnie

Sent from my iPhone

On May 30, 2011, at 4:31 PM, " darpoeta " <chelseadappen@...> wrote:

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

What does this mean when you say " While the surgery will not " freeze your

esophagus in time, " if you take

care of it post-surgery,the chances are that you will slow down its

deterioration " .  Do you mean you can take care of e by eating small meals 6

times a day, no grease etc? If not, how can one take care pf the esophagus and

slow its deterioration?

Thank you for always being there with your knowledge for us.

Priti

 

" I've put off treatment for some time because, even though it's uncomfortable to

live this way, I'm afraid of permanently altering my body and possibly screwing

things up even more. "

 

Cara could have told you more about herself.  She waited, and waited, and then

was told that she should probably have an esophagectomy, since by waiting so

long her esophagus went mega (i.e. became extremely dilated). Very often (but

not always), by delaying surgery you might bery well be altering your body and

possibly screwing things up even more, to " borrow "  your words and concerns.

 

So, go with confidence that you are doing the right thing. While the surgery

will not " freeze your esophagus in time, " if you take care of it

post-surgery,the chances are that you will slow down its deterioration and

restore your ability to eat and drink and not have to do the little " tricks "

that many of us have developed as a way of coping, which can actually make

things worse by putting off the inevitable (the Heller Myotomy).

 

From: spotoca <cspoto@...>

achalasia

Sent: Monday, May 30, 2011 7:06 PM

Subject: Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to forum)

 

Chelsea,

Good luck tomorrow!!!! You will be just fine. The laproscopic heller myotomy is

really not a big deal as far as surgeries go. My C section was much more

invasive and took me longer to heal.

However, I understand your concern. I too was diagnosed in my early twenties

after having suffered for almost 5 years. My Achalasia progressed slowly and I

compensated until I could no longer drink water without regurgitating it. Back

then in 1996 we chose to do the dilitation first. It was successful for about 2

years but again I chose to ignore the tightening that came back and just chugged

water to get my food down. Since food was passing with the water I decided

everything would be fine. I waited 14 years to do something about it. By then my

esophagus was very dialated and sigmoid in shape.

I had my myotomy in October 2010 by Dr. Luketich at UPM (Pittsburgh). I was in

the hospital for about 55 hours (2.5 days). Bring a pillow for your abdomen, it

will help you walk and also during your travels will help to buffer any movement

that may affect your incisions. That was the best advice I got.

i was off all pain meds 2 days after I left the hospital. the only pain I had

was in my left shoulder. This is common with a myotomy and is considered to be

referred pain from the surgery site (LES).

i was on a liquid diet for 10 days post op and then soft solids for 3 months. i

was also not able to lift anything more than 10lbs for 3 months. If I was

working at a desk job at the time, i would have been able to go back with in 1

week.

however, i was and still am a full time mom of twin boys. This was harder and I

needed help with the kids. But I was back to normal for the most part in 2

weeks.

You are so young and you will bounce back from this in no time. I wish you all

the best and keep us posted. I can't wait for your swallowing to improve!!!

Cara

>

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

[Guest guest]

Good luck with your surgery tomorrow. I'm 31 myself and having undergone

surgery only 8 weeks ago. The procedure and recovery itself is really pretty

good. I was in hospital for 4 nights and only on basic paracetamol for pain

relief as I couldn't have anything stronger. Regardless I didn't need anything.

The important thing is to move around to move the gas in your abdomen that they

use as part of the surgery - this may give you pain in your shoulders and that

can be the worst, but rest assured it passes. Also, I looked like ET for a week

or so due to abdominal swelling, but that too passes.

I had liquid for 3 weeks, and am now on soft solids. Trust me soup gets boring

pretty quickly. I also have had to adapt to eating a higher number of smaller

meals.

I've had a number of surgeries in the past 10 years. On the scale,

this one's pretty good.

Ren :-)

>

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Priti,

 

Over the years, knowledge of achalasia has increased amongst doctors, and with

groups such as this, even more so. After I had my Heller (open) Myotomy in 1991,

the sense that the surgeon gave me was that " Ok, I've done my job, you had your

surgery, and while you still have achalasia, your esophagus is now fixed; end of

story. "   While its the end of the surgeon's story, its only the next chapter in

our story.

 

Let's first do the usual disclaimor: We are all different; what works for one

person does not for another. Some people progress slowly with achalasia, while

others go from " feast to famine " literally overnight. Some people have the

Heller and might be fine for the rest of their lives, while others,

unfortunately need subsequent care.

 

What I was talking about in the previous message you asked me about was that

regardless of how good we (hopefully) will feel post-Myotomy, we still have

basically a non-functioning esophagus.  How we treat it going forward might,

and the word " might " is important, be the determining factor as to the quality

of our eating and whether or not we need another surgical intervention.  I'm

not suggesting that we necessarily have to eat " small meals 6 times a day, no

grease etc, " but what I am saying is that we should eat, by not just using our

mouth, but using our brains, too.

 

We should know what works and what doesn't work. How many people in this group

have admitted to " slipping up " by either eating too fast, drinking too little,

or eating too much.  We're human; it happens. But, for the most part, we should

just continue to be aware that while we eat, we are dealing with a part of our

body that no longer works.   Many of us have posted how we eat, and one has to

find what works best for them.  This is what I do, and have been doing fairly

consistently since being told my E had to be removed.

 

I will always start a meal drinking carbonation (which does not work for many in

our group), in order to clear out any residual food from previous meals. 

Otherwise you might be putting food on top of more food (never a good thing and

leads to more stretching of the E). I will eat slowly and try to follow each

bite of food with a drink (thus my need, when eating out, for free refills). The

whole idea to clear the esophagus, reducing the " erosion " that food can create

to prevent it from stretching even more. I will always end meals with a

clearing drink.  I try to stay away from food items that historically have

given me problems, things such as spongy items that don't seem to break down

(steak, popcorn, spongy bread, lettuce, etc.).  I will have a drink of soda

before I go to sleep to further increase the chances that there is no food

rotting away or sitting in my E while I sleep. I use one pillow to sleep on.

 

I also recommend annual or biannual checkups by a gastroenterologist who is very

knowledgeable with achalasia.  Our esophagus can deteriorate without our even

knowing it.  Sometimes an endoscopy or barium swallow can give us a heads up

before its too late to limit our alternatives.

 

And (excuse the " cornyness " which is not intended) - keep reading messages on

this Board. While I am sure that not everything said here is correct about

achalasia (present writer included), there is always more to learn by reading

the wealth of information that is shared here. Notan, who is far more than

just a " regurgitator " of the countless studies he has selflessly shared with

us, and medical suggestions he has given us, but is a person whose life's

philosophies has made us all better people, has set the standard for all support

groups and what they should aspire to.  We are most fortunate to have him,

almost from the beginning of this group, plus many others who have given of

themselves.

 

From: Preeti Mahajan <priti19.mahajan@...>

achalasia

Sent: Monday, May 30, 2011 10:04 PM

Subject: Re: Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to

forum)

 

Hi ,

What does this mean when you say " While the surgery will not " freeze your

esophagus in time, " if you take

care of it post-surgery,the chances are that you will slow down its

deterioration " .  Do you mean you can take care of e by eating small meals 6

times a day, no grease etc? If not, how can one take care pf the esophagus and

slow its deterioration?

Thank you for always being there with your knowledge for us.

Priti

 

" I've put off treatment for some time because, even though it's uncomfortable to

live this way, I'm afraid of permanently altering my body and possibly screwing

things up even more. "

 

Cara could have told you more about herself.  She waited, and waited, and then

was told that she should probably have an esophagectomy, since by waiting so

long her esophagus went mega (i.e. became extremely dilated). Very often (but

not always), by delaying surgery you might bery well be altering your body and

possibly screwing things up even more, to " borrow "  your words and concerns.

 

So, go with confidence that you are doing the right thing. While the surgery

will not " freeze your esophagus in time, " if you take care of it

post-surgery,the chances are that you will slow down its deterioration and

restore your ability to eat and drink and not have to do the little " tricks "

that many of us have developed as a way of coping, which can actually make

things worse by putting off the inevitable (the Heller Myotomy).

 

From: spotoca <cspoto@...>

achalasia

Sent: Monday, May 30, 2011 7:06 PM

Subject: Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to forum)

 

Chelsea,

Good luck tomorrow!!!! You will be just fine. The laproscopic heller myotomy is

really not a big deal as far as surgeries go. My C section was much more

invasive and took me longer to heal.

However, I understand your concern. I too was diagnosed in my early twenties

after having suffered for almost 5 years. My Achalasia progressed slowly and I

compensated until I could no longer drink water without regurgitating it. Back

then in 1996 we chose to do the dilitation first. It was successful for about 2

years but again I chose to ignore the tightening that came back and just chugged

water to get my food down. Since food was passing with the water I decided

everything would be fine. I waited 14 years to do something about it. By then my

esophagus was very dialated and sigmoid in shape.

I had my myotomy in October 2010 by Dr. Luketich at UPM (Pittsburgh). I was in

the hospital for about 55 hours (2.5 days). Bring a pillow for your abdomen, it

will help you walk and also during your travels will help to buffer any movement

that may affect your incisions. That was the best advice I got.

i was off all pain meds 2 days after I left the hospital. the only pain I had

was in my left shoulder. This is common with a myotomy and is considered to be

referred pain from the surgery site (LES).

i was on a liquid diet for 10 days post op and then soft solids for 3 months. i

was also not able to lift anything more than 10lbs for 3 months. If I was

working at a desk job at the time, i would have been able to go back with in 1

week.

however, i was and still am a full time mom of twin boys. This was harder and I

needed help with the kids. But I was back to normal for the most part in 2

weeks.

You are so young and you will bounce back from this in no time. I wish you all

the best and keep us posted. I can't wait for your swallowing to improve!!!

Cara

>

> I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of Iowa

Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time because,

even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of permanently

altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived to

tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> Fingers crossed.

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you to everyone who responded. It feels really great to have a group of

people who understand what this disorder's like considering how rare it is.

I've been out of surgery since 3:30 this afternoon (It's about 8 p.m.). The

surgery went really well according to the doctor. I'll be here overnight, have a

barium swallow in the morning, and if everything looks good, I'll get to go

home.

Assuming things are okay, I'd definitely recommend the University of Iowa

Hospital for this treatment. My incisions hurt a bit (kind of like I did 1,000

push-ups), but I do not feel any internal pain where he cut the LES. They did a

partial wrap of my stomach, and things feel pretty good there too. They also

used the robot which I think really helped.

I can't have anything to drink or eat until tomorrow which blows, especially

since the other lady in my room just ordered food and it's making me hungry, but

they are keeping me hydrated and I have my little painkiller button to press

every 15 minutes. One thing I did not expect was how dry my mouth would be from

something they gave me during surgery to cut down on saliva production so they

didn't drown in it while they were down there. I feel like I swallowed a bag of

cotton.

I've walked around a little bit and it hasn't hurt too bad. The most

uncomfortable part is sitting up and using those muscles even every so slightly,

but it's not unbearable.

Thanks again you guys. You made me feel so much better. I guess I only need to

be on a clear liquid diet tomorrow through day 5 and then I get other liquid up

to day 7 and then mushy for a few weeks after that.

I'm looking forward to my first big meal, and possibly being able to eat steak

without trouble one day soon.

Do you guys have any suggestions for making myself comfortable once I get home

or any recipe ideas for the clear-mushy diet?

Nap time for me.

>

> >

>

> > I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> >

>

> > I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of

Iowa Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time

because, even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of

permanently altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

> >

>

> > I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to find

a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

intended).

>

> >

>

> > I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

" minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

> >

>

> > I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived

to tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can resume

activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

> >

>

> > Fingers crossed.

>

> >

>

>

[Guest guest]

happy to hear the good news. My daughter (21yrs old) had the same surgery last

February, so far  she is doing 100% better except she said sometimes she feels

like she want to throw up but I think her mind /body is confused. She can eat

everything and my goodness she has more energy now and SPASM FREE!. Her surgery

was done at Univ of Michigan Hospital by Dr Reddy.

________________________________

From: darpoeta <chelseadappen@...>

achalasia

Sent: Tue, May 31, 2011 9:09:58 PM

Subject: Re: Having Robotic Heller Mytomy Tomorrow (new to forum)

 

Thank you to everyone who responded. It feels really great to have a group of

people who understand what this disorder's like considering how rare it is.

I've been out of surgery since 3:30 this afternoon (It's about 8 p.m.). The

surgery went really well according to the doctor. I'll be here overnight, have a

barium swallow in the morning, and if everything looks good, I'll get to go

home.

Assuming things are okay, I'd definitely recommend the University of Iowa

Hospital for this treatment. My incisions hurt a bit (kind of like I did 1,000

push-ups), but I do not feel any internal pain where he cut the LES. They did a

partial wrap of my stomach, and things feel pretty good there too. They also

used the robot which I think really helped.

I can't have anything to drink or eat until tomorrow which blows, especially

since the other lady in my room just ordered food and it's making me hungry, but

they are keeping me hydrated and I have my little painkiller button to press

every 15 minutes. One thing I did not expect was how dry my mouth would be from

something they gave me during surgery to cut down on saliva production so they

didn't drown in it while they were down there. I feel like I swallowed a bag of

cotton.

I've walked around a little bit and it hasn't hurt too bad. The most

uncomfortable part is sitting up and using those muscles even every so slightly,

but it's not unbearable.

Thanks again you guys. You made me feel so much better. I guess I only need to

be on a clear liquid diet tomorrow through day 5 and then I get other liquid up

to day 7 and then mushy for a few weeks after that.

I'm looking forward to my first big meal, and possibly being able to eat steak

without trouble one day soon.

Do you guys have any suggestions for making myself comfortable once I get home

or any recipe ideas for the clear-mushy diet?

Nap time for me.

>

> >

>

> > I'm a 24 yr old female diagnosed with achalasia earlier this year. I've

>suspected this is what I've had for years and years. For as long as I can

>remember this disorder has been a part of my life.

>

> >

>

> > I'm having surgery tomorrow with Dr. Mark Iannettoni at the University of

>Iowa Hospital, and I'm really nervous. I've put off treatment for some time

>because, even though it's uncomfortable to live this way, I'm afraid of

>permanently altering my body and possibly screwing things up even more.

>

>

> >

>

> > I'm someone that doesn't like losing control (not that anyone does,

>particularly) and I really hate feeling weak. I've learned to cope over the

>years, eat smaller bites, drink water after bites, etc. and I've managed to

find

>a comfortable way of life. I know the idea is that life will be even easier

>after surgery, but the idea of being cut into is sticking in my throat (pun

>intended).

>

>

> >

>

> > I guess I'm just curious what I should expect after the surgery. I've never

>had surgery, and I don't know what kind of pain is associated with these 5

> " minor " incisions, what kind of pain comes along with organ rearrangement, and

>other difficulties that I cannot foresee.

>

>

> >

>

> > I suppose I want some comfort from those that have been through this, lived

>to tell the tale, and have thrived sense. My surgeon says most people can

resume

>activity/work in about a week's time. I'm not totally buying that, but I'm

>assuming since it's robotic and minimally invasive there's less room for

>complications and I'll have a quicker recovery time.

>

>

> >

>

> > Fingers crossed.

>

> >

>

>