Besides all the Pre-Op tests (blood work, X-rays, heart, anesthesia and financial checks), one of the major requirements is to stop certain medications at certain times prior to surgery.
For Larry, the major concern of all surgeons is blood thinner (Coumadin). The standard answer is to stop Coumadin 5 days before surgery -- which he will do. This gives his blood a chance to return to a normal coagulation state. The risk of a stroke for heart patients NOT on Coumadin is 1/1000, so missing 5-6 days is a negligible risk increase.
But surgeons worry about other drugs which can affect blood clotting. So here is a more complete list of DO NOT TAKE items:
NSAIDs (like Motrin, Aleve and Naprosyn) should be stopped 7 days before surgery.
Aspirin should be stopped 7 days before surgery.
Vitamin E, multivitamins and fish oil (all oil soluble) should be stopped 10-14 days before surgery.
All herbal preparations should be stopped 7 days before surgery.
On the other side of the coin, iron has been added into Larry's medications. This is a form of blood-doping; it worked very well on Larry's back surgery two years ago.
So I am elevating everything in the house so Larry can get up and down when he returns from the hospital. This includes the bed, the toilet seat, a chair and the davenport.
Our B.S. lists (that's Before Surgery) are shrinking in size. One more social commitment of the 'blended' family Thanksgiving dinner at Laura's in Chesaning this Saturday and we will be ready to head for Cleveland.
No pictures for this post.
Judy
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