Full hysterectomy and epidurals

bluerose

It looks like I might be headed for a full hysterectomy soon but because of heart damage from prior chemo drugs etc. they won't let me have a general anaesthetic so are suggesting an epidural. Has anyone here had a full hysterectormy with an epidural? How was it?

Thanks.

Tethys41

Epidural
Hi Rose,
I never had a full hysterectomy with an epidural. but was given the option, many years ago, to have abdominal surgery with an epidural vs. general anesthesia. I opted out, but they told me that all I would feel was some tugging, if I went that route. I did have an epidural as well as general anesthesia for my debulking surgery, and the epidural was left in post surgery for awhile for pain management. It was very effective. Will they be giving you any anti-anxiety meds during your surgery? I've had a coctail of fentanyl and vicodan (I think) in the past. It really makes stressful procedures a piece of cake.

jazzy1

Tethys41 said:

Epidural
Hi Rose,
I never had a full hysterectomy with an epidural. but was given the option, many years ago, to have abdominal surgery with an epidural vs. general anesthesia. I opted out, but they told me that all I would feel was some tugging, if I went that route. I did have an epidural as well as general anesthesia for my debulking surgery, and the epidural was left in post surgery for awhile for pain management. It was very effective. Will they be giving you any anti-anxiety meds during your surgery? I've had a coctail of fentanyl and vicodan (I think) in the past. It really makes stressful procedures a piece of cake.

Blue Rose
Try www.hystersisters.com....I was on this site a lot right after my total hysterectomy and know the gals there were quite helpful.

I had a general anesthesia and can only imagine about a epidural. The later had during child birth and know I felt NO PAIN, but yet was awake.

Good luck and hope you find your answers... When having surgery? Why at this point in time?