PD Cath Surgery Question

[george40]

Hi all, I am scheduled to have the cath put in for pd tomorrow morning. I have a question.....  After the surgery and I have all my faculties, alert, etc. Is it possible to drive  myself home? (30 minute drive) or is it totally not recommended? Would driving be too painful? Of course the dr. said get a driver but hmmmm, my driver is backing out.     Hopefully the person that's suppose to drive will be available.

[peleroja]

When my surgery was done, I had a presternal catheter and I found it difficult to use my left arm.  I didn't drive for a week, although I would probably have been comfortable after 3 days, but I had left my car at the hospital and didn't have anyone to drive me there.

[george40]

When my surgery was done, I had a presternal catheter and I found it difficult to use my left arm.  I didn't drive for a week, although I would probably have been comfortable after 3 days, but I had left my car at the hospital and didn't have anyone to drive me there.

Thanks, I may do the same and leave my car there.

[Restorer]

When I had my first catheter put in, I was dropped off at the surgery center in the morning and picked up four hours later. I was still too woozy from the anethesia to walk straight easily, but with the level of pain meds in me, it was just bearable to walk. When I had my catheter replaced a month later, I drove myself to the hospital that morning and left my car in the lot. They did it all through the same incision site and exit site, plus two keyholes. I had to stay overnight at the hospital, and got a ride back when I was discharged the next day. That time I wasn't woozy or anything, but the pain was much worse. I had to wait two days to feel well enough to get a ride back to the hospital to get my car.

[KICKSTART]

I wouldnt drive if i were you , i dont think you will be fit enough at all.

[Ken Shelmerdine]

No way Hose don't even think about it. It will be too painfull. Ther's no way you'd to an emergency stop without traumatiising either the surgury wound or the exit site or worse still both!
Also I'd advise having a full anaesthetic. Best of Luck

[george40]

Thanks everyone. I had a driver.