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[Micky]

I am going in for a full hysterectomy next week & trying to understand the different options of anaesthesia ...I don't like being completely knocked out -so am wondering if a spinal block or epidural would be preferable for me and if its possible with a full hysterectomy ....Any ladies had this??

[CLKD]

Give the Hospital a ring and ask to speak with the Anaesthetis who works in the Team that will be doing the surgery ………. most Surgeons work with the same Anaesthetist each time.

[honeybun]

  :'(I had three kids with a spinal block and C section.

A few years ago my mum broke her hip. The consultant encouraged her to have the op under a spinal block. He said recovery was much quicker.

As CLKD says phone and ask and then you can make your decision from there.

Good luck when the time comes.


Honeyb
x

[Joyce]

I had second caesarean using a spinal block. It was great, but although pain free, I could still feel all the tugging etc at the birth. I imagine hysterectomy may be similar. Hard to describe, but best one I heard was try & imagine someone doing the washing up in your tummy.  I was knocked out for my hysterectomy, but if you feel strongly enough I'd ask your surgeon/anaesthetist if a spinal block is an option.
Good luck with your op.

[Micky]

Thank you ladies - I am booked in for 7 am next Tuesday morn -so am assuming I will get to see the surgeon/doc before the actual op and get a chance to ask a few questions etc ....Yikes

[Joyce]

They usually do health checks day before, but worth checking before then if you can, so they are better prepared for your wishes.

[Mrs January]

Hi There

I had two C sections by epidural...one leading to a 12 lbs baby boy. Yes awake and felt fine, just tugging, pulling etc but NO pain........Left me feeling in control as I had General anaethetics......fours hours after having my daughter I was in the shower and drip down:))

Just a thought re pain control post op too. Voltarol PR (by rectum ) was the most effective....don't opt for tablets for pain post op in the first couple of days....it won't be effective enough....

Hugs Mrs January xx

[Taz2]

Spinal block is offered for hysterectomy but it does depend on the health and overall temperament of the patient. You can ask the same question over at the hysterectomy UK forum. I had some great support in the summer when I was waiting to have mine http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/

Taz x

[lancashirelass]

Im not sure.for a hyst they would let you depends if.you are having womb only removed or everything.  Personally i wouldnt want to be awake. 

[Taz2]

Lancashirelass - spinal block is used quite routinely for hysterectomies now - including taking the ovaries too. It has a great success rate but does depend on whether the patient is prone to anxiety as it is quite a noisy procedure. The hysterectomy association mention it http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/information/what-is-a-hysterectomy/how-is-a-hysterectomy-performed/

Taz x

[honeybun]

I agree but when having kids it's not the noise but more sort of tugging and pulling. I did get a bit distressed but the anethisitis is there to help and I had a little injection and sort of floated off for a short while.
My mother remembers nothing about her hip op and that involved a hammer as a plate was put in.

Hospital will keep you right and make sure everything goes smoothly. That's what they are there for and although it's a huge thing for us they do it day in and out and want the best possible result.


Honeyb
X

[CLKD]

Surgical intervention is NOISY  and that's not only the Surgical Team chatting away 

I have seen instruments used for the various operations ………. like being in a carpenters' work shop - think Santa and his Elves and you are almost there ……….. 

Give the Ward a ring today ! so that your wishes can be passed to the Consultant and Anaesthetis in good time, otherwise you might not see them until you get to Theatre.

[Taz2]

Thank you ladies - I am booked in for 7 am next Tuesday morn -so am assuming I will get to see the surgeon/doc before the actual op and get a chance to ask a few questions etc ....Yikes

Wasn't this discussed at your pre-op assessment Micky? I remember being asked at mine. I did meet the surgeon briefly in the anaesthetic room before the op but by then I had signed all the necessary forms regarding which type of anaesthesia I preferred.  The waiting is the worst part - you will soon be back home and feeling so relieved that it's all over.

Taz x 

[CLKD]

I believe that the Consent Form is signed at the pre-op assessment?  However, it does state that if there are any issues after signature that these can be discussed prior to surgery.  But if 1 doesn't get to see a Senior Nurse or Consultant/Anaesthetis before going to theatre  …… which is why it is important to speak to the Ward sooner rather than later if one has any concerns, and not to have any pre-med before you are satisfied.  'Cos that pre-med don't half knock one's thought patterns out  ……… don't be fobbed off!

[Taz2]

I didn't have a pre-med as they always  make me feel worse afterwards. It's all down to personal choice I suppose. I did want to walk down to theatre but it's a long long way in our hospital so had to be wheeled down on the bed.