*********cross posted on the Pre-op forum*********

Hi all, having scoured posts to learn what happens when in this process, thought I'd share my pre-admission appointment experience.

Went to the hospital lab yesterday where they did a chest x-ray, asked me a bunch of medical history questions, did an ekg, drew blood, and took a urine sample. I was then given a little braclet that I have to keep on from now until when I go into the hospital. Has something to do with matching my exact blood type in case I should need a transfusion.

After that I headed over to my surgeons office, which is on the same campus as the hospital. My surgery is Tuesday. I have to call on Monday between 2pm & 4pm to find out my exact surgery time. The PA did a physical exam, answered some of my remaining questions -- found out that I will likely get a 10cc band and that my port will be slightly higher than and slightly to the right of my belly button. I will have a total of 5 incisions. Found out I have a bit of a Hiatial Hernia that they will likely repair during surgery.

On Sunday I have to be on Clear liquids only -- no Protein drinks or milk products. On Monday I continue on clear liquids. At 10:00 AM on Monday I am to begin drinkning 8 oz of GoLytely every 10 min until stools are clear or I have ingested a total of 4 liters. I am also to take 1 gram of Neomycin at 1:00pm, 2:00pm and 10:00pm.

The other thing I was surprised to learn is that when I am discharged from the hospital I am expected to give myself shots of Lovenox twice a day for 7 days in my stomach area. My surgeon does this with all patients to prevent DVT clots. Has anyone else had to do this? Of all the stuff I've been through in this process, the idea of giving myself shots is the only thing that has REALLY creeped me out.

Every surgeon's pre-admission process is different, so if you're interested in someone who had a similar experience as you I'd do a search for your particular doctor.

As far as the Lovenox goes my doctor has a similar policy for those who are traveling more than an hour after surgery. From what I've heard, it's pretty common for patients to get a shot of either Lovenox or Heparin before their surgery, and it just depends on the doctor whether they have to take it after surgery. The Lovenox is a blood thinner which helps prevents potentially fatal blood clots that could form after surgery. Also, if you are self-pay, you should know that the Lovenox shots cost about $600

Every surgeon's pre-admission process is different, so if you're interested in someone who had a similar experience as you I'd do a search for your particular doctor.

Yes, I know that there are a variety of experiences throughout the lapband journey, depending on the surgeon. And I was not so much interested in similar experiences. I have been an information junkie and have enjoyed reading about the diversity of experiences people have written about here. My intent really was just to put a part of my experience out there as well for other people who might also enjoy reading about the variety of experiences. :tongue2: