what to expect during/right after AVS

April 8, 2011

Hi all - I'll be running these past my doctor before the procedure, but here are

a few things that I'd like to ask people with first-hand experience. I'm

completely new to hospitals, so apologies in advance if these sound " stupid " - I

really have no clue about this stuff

How incapacitated should I expect to be after the procedure? I'm planning to

take a taxi to the hospital, and to be picked up by a friend afterward. I live

alone and don't like to impose on others much so I would prefer to not have to

have someone with me while I'm recovering, as I'm sure it won't be very pleasant

for any of us.

What might I expect from the anesthesia? I've never had anything stronger than

novocaine before. They will be giving me fentanyl, versed, and morphine.

How big are the bandages they use at the points of entry? Will a pair of jeans

fit over them? Do I need to keep anything in mind clothing-wise? I'm not the

kind of person who owns, say, sweatpants, so if I need to run out and buy some,

now's the time

What, if anything, will I be allowed to do to pass the time during the two hours

after the procedure, when I will be kept at the hospital and not allowed to

move? I was planning on bringing my iPod but have no idea at this point as to

what the rules and regulations are at hospitals, having never been hospitalized

before. Do they have safes to keep your stuff in during the procedure?

And, last - will I really, *realistically*, be able to go back to work the next

day? The IR tells me the drugs will have completely worn off and I should be

fine. But some of the accounts I've read online make it seem like I should plan

for a little more down-time.

Thanks again!

-msmith1928

45, female, 5'3 " , 120 lbs, 1cm left adrenal nodule, aldosterone 42.3, renin 0.5,

potassium <2.9 (when not taking supplements); 25mg spiro caused gynecomastia, no

HTN meds; other meds are 20MEQ K 2x/day, singulair 10mg, norethindrone .35mg,

and cyclobenzaprine 5mg as needed; low sodium, fructose- and grain-free diet

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