As the subject title suggest, which is either best, less risk, more effective ?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Assuming you mean to manage post-op pain, I vote for the epidural - it's more effective and doesn't have many side effects (usually none). The epidural does have some risk, so it's only a good choice in a place that knows how to start and manage them.
I had the morphine pump. Worked well for me but they took it out on day 2
Hey Scott Im from Maryland near the airport
I've had all three and the pump or the epidural are way more effective. The meds are delivered much more regularly with them! Of the two, honestly, I couldn't say which I prefer. Other than itchiness, I've never had a problem with either.
Oh, I should add that I am pretty much TERRIFIED of needles (IVs are such a joy with me!!!) and the epidural -- as far as pain and discomfort goes -- is NOTHING. Seriously, the first time they gave me one I couldn't believe how painless and easy it was. Just in case concern over the insertion is an issue...
Gin
Oh, I should add that I am pretty much TERRIFIED of needles (IVs are such a joy with me!!!) and the epidural -- as far as pain and discomfort goes -- is NOTHING. Seriously, the first time they gave me one I couldn't believe how painless and easy it was. Just in case concern over the insertion is an issue...
Gin
Epidural it was.
When my Stoma was formed, I wasn't given a choice, epidural it was.
On this occassion all things happend too fast, once given the choice I had to decide, I didn't have time to consider opinions on here but thanks.
So, how did it go?
Epidural and whole process gone really well.
epidural out now
Went through a phase of "have I made the right choice" that moment has passed now and I'm doing well.
Been up and about this morning but currently restricted to my bed.
This may be a dumb question, (but my doctor has suggested an epidural too) but can't you not walk on an epidural?
I had a morphine pump the first time, where I could control the dose. Is that how the epidural works? I didn't even know an epidural was an option until a few days ago.
I had a morphine pump the first time, where I could control the dose. Is that how the epidural works? I didn't even know an epidural was an option until a few days ago.
No, you can walk with epidural, all it appears to do is remove the feeling from the mid section.
I had epidural performed just prior to my op and after surgery, although unsteady I was able to move my legs and with assistant I was able stand and switch beds.
The epidural only remains in for 3 or 4 days after surgery and during that time due to the surgery mobility is very limited.
I had epidural performed just prior to my op and after surgery, although unsteady I was able to move my legs and with assistant I was able stand and switch beds.
The epidural only remains in for 3 or 4 days after surgery and during that time due to the surgery mobility is very limited.
Also, epidural the patient has no control, it administers whatever it does automatically via a pump.
Are you taking any pain meds strange?
I was taking paracetamol and ibuprofen for the first few weeks after surgery
I was taking paracetamol and ibuprofen for the first few weeks after surgery
Of Course, definately paracetamol as initially it was administer via IV drip, not sure in regard to ibuprofen.
I have 20-30 staples in my abdomen and had no pain whats so ever, so surely I must be on something stronger as well as than paracetamol.
I have 20-30 staples in my abdomen and had no pain whats so ever, so surely I must be on something stronger as well as than paracetamol.