Two years ago I had a massive bilateral pulmonary embolism due to birth control. I have been taking blood thinners ever since.(warfarin) My biggest fear is that I have another blood clot during/after surgery. Has anyone here had a pulmonary embolism BEFORE they had surgery? Hoping to hear a success story to ease my mind!!

I did not have any problems but there is the risk for any surgery to have blood clots. I think your doctor would be able to explain your risks due to a previous clot better. Hope you find your answer as I know I provided no information.

Well, I too am not going to answer your question, but merely add my same concern. I actually had a DVT/Bilateral Pulmonary Embolism in December 2010, and am currently scheduled for VST on June 7th. I'm having a CT scan today, and a meeting with my pulmonologist next Wednesday. He is aware of my surgery and is a supporter, and is very closely involved in making sure I am ready. I will post back next week to let you know what his advice is at my CT followup appointment.

Were you ever tested for hypercoagulability problems via blood tests? Just talk to your docs - there are measures they can take for higher risk patients eg. TED hose, SCDs (sequential compression devices that squeeze your legs while in bed), heparin shots etc.

Have they suggested putting a screen in just in case? Would that help?

They said there is a possibility of having a screen, at least temporarily but my hematologist said to never let anyone put one in my legs could they would swell to twice their size....so? I don't know what's going to happen.

I didn't have issues n let me say my Dr Placed me on lovenox for two weeks to thin my hood out. I also got up like three hours after surgery n walked but dont me wrong I hurt while doing so but I also wanted to live also if you dr doEsnt give you a stomach band pls purchase one it helps tremendously

I'm very low-risk for a blood clot and still had the leg squeezing things (which I found very soothing) and heparin shots afterward. You look very young in your pic - I bet you have a coag disorder with a history like yours. Good luck!

Well, I had my CT-A scan last week, got the results yesterday and my December 2010 bilateral pulmonary embolism clots have fully dissolved I am going off of coumadin at the end of May and have been cleared for June 7th sleeve surgery. My surgeon has decided to have a removable vena cava filter placed to reduce the risk of another embolism. It worries me having another procedure, but gives me some comfort at the same time. I'll keep you posted on how things go after the surgery. Wish me luck!

I had multiple PE when I was pregnant with my son (1982). I had no problems with my surgery, but on a side note the doctor did have me do a one month regimen of heparin for a month after surgery as a precautionary measure. I am one year out and have had no problems.

Two years ago I had a massive bilateral pulmonary embolism due to birth control. I have been taking blood thinners ever since.(warfarin) My biggest fear is that I have another blood clot during/after surgery. Has anyone here had a pulmonary embolism BEFORE they had surgery? Hoping to hear a success story to ease my mind!!

Good to know Lynn Thank-you! Yes I would be on heparin before and after surgery...then go back on my warfarin. I think I should be okay....just nerves, especially after a big event like a PE!

I had a PE in 2003 partly because of my weight, smoking, birthcontrol, and a lower ankle fracture. My advice to you is walk walk walk. Oh and WALK WALK WALK I was on Heparin before and right after surgery.

So southernsleever....you would suggest walking??? lol. Do you mean walk all the time of after surgery in the hospital? Like does it help to start walking now? I have been walking about a mile a day.

It's mostly once you have surgery. Even if you take a plane you need to be walking, if you drive stop every hour and walk. Move your ankles around to keep the blood flowing in yoru viens. Do not sit at the computer for hours and hours. Keep very hydrated. I think you will be fine.

Thanks I appreciate the advice and support!

Just as a final update....I had the removable vena cava filter placed last Thursday. It was a relatively easy procedure, and I can say it's given me some peace of mind for my surgery TOMORROW....I can't believe it's here and I'm doing this.