I Hate Dialysis Message Board
Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: General Discussion => Topic started by: dwcrawford on April 08, 2009, 08:28:45 AM
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Yesterday I came home fron the doctor's office feeling pretty confident about the decisions make. This morning in the light of a brand new day, I'm having second thoughts. Because of timing, he intends to put in both a fistala and a cather and start the dialysis right away (while in the hospital). Have you ever heard of getting both at the same time? This morning I'm feelin queasy about that. He did say 1. that he'd remove the cather when the fistala heals and that 2. because of my general health conditions that I will most likely do well with dialysis (which is why he didn't want to postpone it until the fistala was ready.)
Should I just say go for it and get it all over with? Does this sound weird to anyone?
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DW the cath is just temporary unitl the fistula heals. You must need D soon this is the only reason he would put the neck cath in. IMO
Its natural to have second thoughts. But he must feel you dont have the three months it takes for the fistula to heal. Thus he wants to start you now. WHile the fistula is healing.
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It sounds ok to me - you'll be knocked out and they can do both - rather than scheduling 2 different surgeries. But I am confused - did you say you have to stay IN the hospital for a week? Most fistula and chest catheter surgeries are out-patient. And so is the dialysis, unless it's on an emergency basis (Jenna was given a chest catheter and 2 days of dialysis back to back because her kidneys crashed over a weekend.)
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It sounds ok to me - you'll be knocked out and they can do both - rather than scheduling 2 different surgeries. But I am confused - did you say you have to stay IN the hospital for a week? Most fistula and chest catheter surgeries are out-patient. And so is the dialysis, unless it's on an emergency basis (Jenna was given a chest catheter and 2 days of dialysis back to back because her kidneys crashed over a weekend.)
It is not unusual for the catheter and fistula to be placed at the same time. As okarol stated, it is probably easier on you to have both surgeries done at the same time rather than scheduling a second one later. The catheter will be used until the fistula is ready. Because fistulas take a little while to heal and become ready for use, the sooner you have it done, the sooner you can use it and get rid of the catheter.
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Yes that's what I said. It was strange to me too. Dr. Olivero is a young go getter and he may be wanting to use me fpr experiments. (????) It also may have something to do with low blood platelets... but he wants to give me the first three treatments in the hospital with him being there. Is that really strange? Maybe it has something to do with my age? Or my being a little clumbsy? Should I ask more? He said he was sure I'd do well if I start immediately due to general health conditions and good nutrition. I don't know?
But I did ask for the room (suite) that Barbara Bush just vacated... any thought I'll get it??? I think the response amounted to a NO.
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Yes that's what I said. It was strange to me too. Dr. Olivero is a young go getter and he may be wanting to use me fpr experiments. (????) It also may have something to do with low blood platelets... but he wants to give me the first three treatments in the hospital with him being there. Is that really strange? Maybe it has something to do with my age? Or my being a little clumbsy? Should I ask more? He said he was sure I'd do well if I start immediately due to general health conditions and good nutrition. I don't know?
But I did ask for the room (suite) that Barbara Bush just vacated... any thought I'll get it??? I think the response amounted to a NO.
I think if there is any confusion or question in your mind as to the reason for ANY aspect of your care, you should ask about it. Any competent physician will not be offended by a reasonable question. I am not sure why he would want to keep you in the hospital for a week, but if there is a good reason, he shouldn't be afraid to tell you what it is.
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hahaha at least you still have a sense of humor.. I saw Barbara and George at the Astros game last night... Good to see her out and about... On another note: I hear that having both done at the same time is normal.. Keeping you is rare but you know this is all going to be NEW to you so at least you will have someone to help you that first week.
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Actually David .ng. word, I feel much more secure in the hospital. I believe the reasoning he expressed was because he was going to have both things done at one time... and also to the the dialysis center involved up front (they too are associated with Methodist hospital). My concern was just how expensive it would be (to some insurance companies not to me) but do I really care? I should!
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I had a catheter and the first part of the fistula done together. The next day I had my last kidney removed and stayed in the hospital (obviously) to recover from the kidney surgery (full abdominal). I started dialysis the day after surgery in the hospital. A few months later the vascular surgeon lifted the fistula in my arm to the surface.
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I wish I had my nephrologist by my side during those first hemodialysis sessions.
You're in good hands, my friend.
8)
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Actually David .ng. word, I feel much more secure in the hospital. I believe the reasoning he expressed was because he was going to have both things done at one time... and also to the the dialysis center involved up front (they too are associated with Methodist hospital). My concern was just how expensive it would be (to some insurance companies not to me) but do I really care? I should!
That is great. It seemed that you were asking us for possible explanations for the hospital stay. It is definitely not a bad option. As long as you are happy with it and the reaons for it, that is all that matters. :2thumbsup;
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actually my concern was about doing them both at the same time... as I said, yesterday I felt quite confident about the decision, but is is ONE day closer.
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dwcrawford, have them both done. My husband had a new catheter and a graft place at the same time. Knocked out 1 time and the catheter was used until the spot where the graft was placed had time to heal. Then they pulled the catheter out with just some numbing stuff. He said it wasn't too bad. Let us know what you decide. :cuddle;
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dwcrawford, have them both done. My husband had a new catheter and a graft place at the same time. Knocked out 1 time and the catheter was used until the spot where the graft was placed had time to heal. Then they pulled the catheter out with just some numbing stuff. He said it wasn't too bad. Let us know what you decide. :cuddle;
Too Bad? How bad is TOO BAD?? I'm a wussy. No, I'm going to do it like the doctor said. Doesn't mean I won't be worried a bout it however.
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I said I had both done together. No different than having one done. I was under full anesthesia - I wouldn't have known the difference. It was better than going under twice. Why do two separate surgeries when you can have both done in one? There are no additional complications because you have them done at the same time. The catheter is a simple straight forward procedure. As a matter of fact, I had mine replaced with only a locat anesthetic because I didn't have a ride. I wouldn't recommend that. Very strange feeling.
What, specifically, is your concern about doing both together?
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My father had them both put in at the same time. And he also had to stay in hospital for a while. They wanted to make sure he had a couple treatments before he was sent home.
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I always have second thoughts after I feel good talking to a doctor -
it is like the morning comes around and you face reality again -
I think you should do it both at one time -
the cath will help you live until your fistula is ready -
enjoy the time on dialysis with having two free hands
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Hey Twirl... where you been? Yes, it will be fine. I just have to stop worrying about all the little things.
Is your twirler lady nekkid?
Anybody know the difference between Naked and Nekkid?
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dwcrawford, have them both done. My husband had a new catheter and a graft place at the same time. Knocked out 1 time and the catheter was used until the spot where the graft was placed had time to heal. Then they pulled the catheter out with just some numbing stuff. He said it wasn't too bad. Let us know what you decide. :cuddle;
Too Bad? How bad is TOO BAD?? I'm a wussy. No, I'm going to do it like the doctor said. Doesn't mean I won't be worried a bout it however.
Len said when they pulled the catheter that he felt a pulling sensation and then it was over with. You will be just find and being nervous is very normal. I'm like that with the dentist. :cuddle;
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I had em both at the same time. That may be scary, but it beats having a catheter longer. Surgery makes me nervous, but catheter infections scare the crap outta me. Get you a fistula as quick as you can.
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Anybody know the difference between Naked and Nekkid?
If you're in the shower by yourself, you are naked. If you have company, that's nekkid!
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Wellllllllll....if you want PM me and I will give Great detail on how much everything hurt etc...NOT...but even so I am much more a wussy than you ever thought of being and THAT my friend is the gospel truth. I actually asked the Dr to put me to sleep before taking out the catheter and then I had the nerve to ask him if he was done when he was standing there holding it...but that's me. :rofl;
You will be fine..use that week to ask anyone and everyone questions about the dialysis..those hospital nurses give more info than anyone I know.
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hehe. this came from and old TV show called Designing Women.
Naked means you don't have any clothes on.
Neekid means you don't have any clothes on and you are up to something.
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oh my g-ma, we'd make a team...by the way, how big is the cather?
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I truly believe mine was about 10 feet long and mmmm at least an inch in diameter.... :rofl;
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omg, tell me that's joke...
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Dw...the catheter is really no big deal. I felt a little pressure when they put it in...and a little pressure when they took it out. Never gave me a problem while I had it. (Gotta love lidocaine)
Now, man up and get this stuff done....so you'll be here to keep us smiling for a long time to come! :2thumbsup;
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Yes, lidocaine....I asked for a doggie bag of that but nooooo.......and DW...I'm really bad at measurements but Saul is happy about that........ >:D
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thanks wenchie... hey you have a new picture...almost didn't recognize you. Two week from yesterday is the day but don't expect me to be a man about it. I am a wimp but I won't wimp out.
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I have faith in you DW...you're gonna do fine. You will also have some interesting stories for us afterward....of that I AM sure!
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Gma, I thought that was men who measured like that....
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Actually all the men in my life taught me....and I raised 2 sons...you learn a lot. :rofl;
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I'm really bad at measurements but Saul is happy about that........ >:D
:rofl; :rofl; :rofl; ur funny G-ma! cute!
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You guys make me laugh every morning... :rofl;
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DW, you are going to do fine. You certainly have become an important part of this family. Your sense of humor help all of us. Wenchie and G-ma are going to keep you in line. I will hold your hand and tell you eveything is going to be fine. What a group! :rofl;
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Thanks Paris.... when I start on here I was certain I was NOT going to do it. After I got to know some of the people I felt more confident. I also have confidence in my doctors and it looks like the center is going to be tolerable. I am looking for laptops, cell phones, etc. as we speak. I have enough things lined up to keep me entertain for several months. Plus, with a laptop I can keep tabs on all you girls.
You always say the most conforting things. Thank you.
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dw: Is this going to be a neck or chest catheter? I had a neck catheter in for a week after
my original fistula clotted and it was very uncomfortable. Then my surgeon put in a new fistula and
exchanged the neck catheter for a chest catheter which was fine and comfortable until the new
fistula matured. I won't tell you the story of taking the chest catheter out, but I would advise you
to have it removed by the same surgeon who put it in.
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The neck according to the nephrologist... but I haven't seen the Surgeon yet. I'll ask and relay your concerns. I will insist on the same surgeon as you suggested.
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Paris...I can see it now...you patting DWs hand, telling him it's all going to be ok while Wenchie and I attach the straps from the huge human slingshot around DWs chest and yelling Twirl, push the release button....yahhoooo......what a ride........ :rofl;
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I would have them done at the same time too. Knocked out once and its all over. :cuddle;
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I had them both done at the same time, went home for a day or two, and then went back to the hospital for 2 days and started dialysis. My doctor told me she preferred patients be in the hospital for their first couple of treatments just to be safe. Everything went fine and I was out in the two days!
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thanks. that's sort of what he was saying except i'm to stay in the hospital those two days. Also he is going to have the nurses, etc. come but and get me oriented to the following week. I wish it were not to get it over with. Bigsteve says the cather in the neck area wasn't comfortable. mmm.
But I am more tired, sleepier than ever and I'm having flu lick symptoms -- light but a little strange.
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as others have said it is not unusual to have a catheter and fistula done at the same time - I have seen plenty of them come through our unit. The thing is the fistula will take AT LEAST a month and probably 6 weeks to mature and be useable, so if you're really being effected by the kidney failure (like you said being extra tired etc) it seems he wants to get you started ASAP so you need the dialysis in his estimation.
I am confident you will be fine. I know it is scary but they will take good care of you - and so will we! :)
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Hey Richard.... when have you been? Are you OK? I've been missing all your good advise and encouragement and you are absolutelyl right about this. I'm going to be fine. Afterwards you might have to explain more of the terminology to me. By the way, I'll be getting the first treatment in the hospital but some of the staff from the dialylsis center will come and get me oriented.
Dan
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Hey Richard.... when have you been? Are you OK? I've been missing all your good advise and encouragement and you are absolutelyl right about this. I'm going to be fine. Afterwards you might have to explain more of the terminology to me. By the way, I'll be getting the first treatment in the hospital but some of the staff from the dialylsis center will come and get me oriented.
Dan
oh I'm still around... just taking it easy... and trying to get a girl to go to a movie with me - that's harder work than dialysis!! :rofl;
Having some of the staff coming to orient you is FANTASTIC!!! Oh my gosh I've never heard of that. They must like you!! :) Awesome. I never had anything like that. My first experience was when I walked in the door and they said "OK weigh yourself.. now sit very quietly while we stick you!" - OK I am kiddinf there.. they were great, but I never had anything like what you're describing - and thta sounds really good - specially so you get to know and trust them and are introduced to everything you need to know. Sounds like a great start!
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Just been wondering about you as I haven't see notes from you lately. Question, Richard: what would you do if all the women you flirt with were to show up at your door all at one time?
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I imagine something along the lines of "Come in ladies, make yourselves comfortable!"
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I had my fistula done first because they thought I had time for it to heal before I needed to begin dialysis. But things didn't go as planned and I ended up in the hospital in intensive care due to really high bp that would not come down. When they released me I made the appointment to have the catheter done. Both procedures were outpatient procedures however I had to be awake for the chest catheter. I forget why but I had to be awake. They gave me something to numb the pain of course and all I felt was pressure. I had no idea what they were putting in me. When they took it out I was SHOCKED at how damn long that thing was! I almost passed out. LOL! My mom said she was a bit queasy when they put it in. But no pain.
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Just been wondering about you as I haven't see notes from you lately. Question, Richard: what would you do if all the women you flirt with were to show up at your door all at one time?
Well... I'd ...
1. Faint from surprise
2. After I came to I'd invite them in
3. I'd call the unit and ask for an emergency dose of Aranesp (EPO) :rofl;
4. I'd set up one of those "take a number" machines outside my bedroom door. Right next to it I'd put a self serve bar (trust me, the ladies would need some strong spirits!)
5. I'd cancel all appointments for the next 3 weeks
:rofl;
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hehe. sounds like a plan.
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As Joe E. Brown would say, "Zowie!" :o
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I might be all gloom at the moment about starting dialysis too soon but your doc sounds pretty caring to me. My neph is absolutely terrific. I have her email address and she responds within two hours even on a weekend. I also have her mobile number and with the problems I have had I speak to her or she emails me on the average of a couple of times a day. She just sent me an email to find out how dialysis went today after I had an horrific day yesterday. Caring docs are hard to find. I say stick with him if he is happy to have you in hospital just to keep and eye on you for your first treatments!!
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I had my catheter put in when my GFR fell more quickly that the nephro expected.
The doctor who did it told me I would just feel a little mosquito bite. He lied! But it wasn't too bad..
I begged him not to put it too high up on my neck. I taught high school at the time and did not want to look like the Bride of Frankenstein to my students. Thank goodness he complied!
The good thing about a catheter as opposed to graft and fistula is that when your machine session is over, you can leave right away. With the G and F, you have to wait and hold the sites until bleeding stops.
The bad thing about a catheter (apart from the susceptibility to infection, not being able to swim with it) is that you have to stay very still all through the session or the machine alarms stridently.