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Author Topic: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?  (Read 5582 times)

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mslendzion

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2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« on: December 26, 2011, 07:46:13 PM »
I stopped my relafen and aspirin based meds for my migraines (of which I could have used today due to too much fresh air yesterday if you know what I mean).  What did you all take for the hip pre op. Is it OK to take the narco still?
Left BHR 1/9/12 Dr. Schmitt

Two4One

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #1 on: December 26, 2011, 08:10:36 PM »
If I were you, I would take Vicodin.  Most surgeons have no problem with that because that's essentially what they will send you home with.  if you don't want to go thru a withdrawal post op, use caution and use sparingly, like at night when pain is at its worst. 
"I was inspired by the very idea of turning the wildest figments of your imagination into something real and creating a life for yourself." - Ken Ilgunas

12/11 Failed Bilateral BHR by Dr. Schmitt  3/14 Positive Metal – LTT for Nickel Allergy.   11/14 Bilat Ceramic/Titanium Revisions.

hernanu

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #2 on: December 26, 2011, 08:30:32 PM »
I'd call up the surgeon's office and see what they suggest / think. They should be working well with you right now.
Hernan, LHR 8/24/2010, RHR 11/29/2010 - Cormet, Dr. Snyder

obxpelican

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #3 on: December 26, 2011, 10:29:42 PM »
One of the big no no's is anything that will keep you from clotting.

I would for sure call your doctors, many doctors don't want you taking anything at all.


Chuck
Chuck
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8-6-08

Dan L

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #4 on: December 27, 2011, 07:42:15 AM »
I have had tremdous results with Tramadol, for the hips and for a set of spine issues.  It is a wonder drug: very low side effects (digestive slow down is the only one), and it works great for low to upper moderate pain (3 to 7 or 8 on pain scale).  No euphoria, maybe a bit of edgyness (like a couple extra cups of tea).  It allowed me to remain working and keep a normal lifestyle once prescribed by pain management docs more than 10 years ago for spine issues (post 2 cervical spine fusions).

Vicodin for me is not effective, has worse side effects, and does not help with the pain much.  Causes nightmares for me, oddly.

Hope it helps

Dan
LBHR Dr Brooks, 10/2011; RBHR 2/2012

Two4One

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #5 on: December 27, 2011, 08:23:36 AM »
Hello mslendzion and All,

mslendzion and I have the same terrific surgeon, Dr. Schmitt, so I wrote my original reply to her already knowing his pre op protocol.  mslendzion and I have also gotten to know each other through this wonderful board.  With that in mind, I felt comfortable recommending a narcotic, but I should have added "if nothing else you've tried helps with your pain."  I also should have kept in mind all the other hippies here wanting relief from pre op pain and recommended consulting with their surgeon if they have one and to seek the care of a pain management physician.  Oops! :-[

Being bedridden for 2 yrs pre op in total 9 level agony, taking serious narcotics that lessened my pain to only a 6 most days, and flat on my back with undiagnosed bilateral bone on bone OA, has given me a somewhat unique perspective.  I had nothing better to do than research and talk with hipsters of various stripes and conditions; calls and emails that helped me hold on through the long night of seeing a dozen local yokel surgeons who read my X rays as normal and who either intimated or came out and said that I was a drug addict.

Other hipsters from various boards have written me that Tramadol, while not a narcotic, still has a nasty withdrawal once you're done.  I also had to withdraw from all narcotics for 3 weeks before a surgical date of November 1st with the well known arthroscopic surgeon, Dr. Philippon, so Chuck's right about many surgeon's pre op protocols. 

Dr. Philippon was the doctor who finally diagnosed me with end stage OA, enabling me to get my hips resurfaced and out of unspeakable pain in short order.  (Dr. Sampson and Dr. Kelly had also kindly looked at my films prior to my two flight out to Colorado to see Philippon and wrote me their professional opinions that I had OA, and STILL my local Indiana surgeons said there was nothing wrong with me!!!)

As I'm typing this at 8am, 7 days post op, I'm at a '2'!!!!!! with scar and muscle pain only.  The OA is gone!  I digress, IMO no one should have to suffer needlessly.
 

It's really up to you and the doctor's you choose to treat you.  After my experiences and pre op condition, adequate pain relief before, during, and after, was one of the top criteria I used in selecting a hip resurfacing surgeon.
« Last Edit: December 27, 2011, 08:44:06 AM by Two4One »
"I was inspired by the very idea of turning the wildest figments of your imagination into something real and creating a life for yourself." - Ken Ilgunas

12/11 Failed Bilateral BHR by Dr. Schmitt  3/14 Positive Metal – LTT for Nickel Allergy.   11/14 Bilat Ceramic/Titanium Revisions.

Dan L

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #6 on: December 27, 2011, 09:54:19 AM »
Two4one;

Good points.  Great to hear how well you are doing.

I have never had the Tramadol withdrawl thankfully, it works so well, for me, that I rarely take more than one 50mg per day.  As a synthectic opiod, I'm sure it is not fun to go through.  Another side effect I forgot to mention was sleeplessness; I can't take it at night and sleep.  I used to use darvocet for that, but since it was pulled, the vicodin has been used as a replacement, which does little for the pain, and heaps on the side effects.

I did go through minor post op withdrawl after my BHR; the break from the mscontin and hyrocodone within the first 2 weeks lead to some nausea and chills, but were nothing terrible in the grand scheme of things.
LBHR Dr Brooks, 10/2011; RBHR 2/2012

hernanu

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #7 on: December 27, 2011, 10:17:35 AM »
Hey Two4One, just wanted to note how glad I am that you're out of the hands of the local yokels and all clean and good for the future.

It's always great to see someone who went through this kind of pain out of it and pushing forward. Nothing to do with the current topic (sorry), but just had to throw that in.
Hernan, LHR 8/24/2010, RHR 11/29/2010 - Cormet, Dr. Snyder

mslendzion

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #8 on: December 27, 2011, 11:01:00 AM »
Hey Two4One, just wanted to note how glad I am that you're out of the hands of the local yokels and all clean and good for the future.

It's always great to see someone who went through this kind of pain out of it and pushing forward. Nothing to do with the current topic (sorry), but just had to throw that in.

Ditto
Left BHR 1/9/12 Dr. Schmitt

Two4One

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #9 on: December 27, 2011, 07:43:43 PM »
Quote
Hey Two4One, just wanted to note how glad I am that you're out of the hands of the local yokels and all clean and good for the future.

Thanks, hernanu.  I'm not exactly "clean" of narcotics at this point in my recovery.  Actually, I'm at the exact same 32mg Dilaudid/day dosage that I was 2 years ago pre op, except at that time I was also on a pre op 100mg Fentanyl patch for 2 years along with it.  One benefit from my previous withdrawal for my now cancelled November arthroscopy revision is that it helped me realize withdrawal sickness only lasts for 2 weeks.  Another benefit of that withdrawal was at least I didn't have to deal with an added Fentanyl weaning because I never resumed it (knowing I could hang on with a new surgical date for bilateral resurfacing on my immediate horizon).  I'm open about my post op pain control in "Bilateral Stories".

I have added two or so 7.5 Norcos to my regimen for post op pain control though.  It's believed that a 2 year pre op history of Dilaudid and Fentanyl builds quite a tolerance to narcotics.  Essentially, the usual compliment of post op pain drugs are not as effective for me.  No worries, my tough as shoe leather pain management doctor will set me to rights with a taper.  I see him December 30th.

I don't mean to hijack your thread, mslendzion.  You've been doing so well, and I hope Dr. Schmitt takes care of your pre op pain.  I know that your in hospital pain will be extremely well mangaged - Huron Valley Sinai prides themselves at keeping you really comfortable.  They'll put the right stuff in your pain pump, tailored to you. 

Would you let us know what you decided to do for your pre op pain? 

Tonight, Hubs says I've commented on my pain lessening the past 2 days, and he thought I was getting better.

 
« Last Edit: December 27, 2011, 11:27:53 PM by Two4One »
"I was inspired by the very idea of turning the wildest figments of your imagination into something real and creating a life for yourself." - Ken Ilgunas

12/11 Failed Bilateral BHR by Dr. Schmitt  3/14 Positive Metal – LTT for Nickel Allergy.   11/14 Bilat Ceramic/Titanium Revisions.

mslendzion

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #10 on: December 28, 2011, 10:40:04 AM »
The hospital phoned yesterday to prep me for my visit.  They advised me to stay away from anti-inflammatory and aspirin like pills but all others I have been perscribed are OK.  They indicated hydrocodone was fine to take up to 4 hours up to the surgery.  The pain has been getting more extreme each day.  I'm looking forward for some relief.
Left BHR 1/9/12 Dr. Schmitt

Two4One

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #11 on: December 28, 2011, 11:54:22 AM »
You poor thing; my pain really spiralled too right before surgery.  I figured they would clear you for Vicodin pre op because it has acetaminophen, which shouldn't complicate anything with your health history.  I'm so glad you have something to take in the days leading up to what I know will be your wildly successful hip resurfacing.

Looking at your escalating pre op pain from a different angle - I was glad that my pain was worse than ever before my resurfacing because I knew that post op pain would be "a walk in the park with the beastmaster" compared to the nastiness that is end stage OA pain.   mslendzionm, you are suffering and now overcoming an affliction that seems to strike one in four Americans, (or something like that).

I am actually feeling freakin' fantastic today and have been singing and humming!!  I am so thrilled for you; I know the talented and experienced Dr. Schmitt will fix you right up, just like he has me! 

"Let's go.  Rock and Roll" - My catch phrase with all my girlfriends during my twenties, and it now applies more than ever to my even more fun vintage fox 50!  You will do so great, and I look forward to us Schmitties healing together!
« Last Edit: December 28, 2011, 08:44:28 PM by Two4One »
"I was inspired by the very idea of turning the wildest figments of your imagination into something real and creating a life for yourself." - Ken Ilgunas

12/11 Failed Bilateral BHR by Dr. Schmitt  3/14 Positive Metal – LTT for Nickel Allergy.   11/14 Bilat Ceramic/Titanium Revisions.

hernanu

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #12 on: December 28, 2011, 12:20:56 PM »
The hospital phoned yesterday to prep me for my visit.  They advised me to stay away from anti-inflammatory and aspirin like pills but all others I have been perscribed are OK.  They indicated hydrocodone was fine to take up to 4 hours up to the surgery.  The pain has been getting more extreme each day.  I'm looking forward for some relief.

Great that you're going to manage your pain going in; the surgery will take care of the OA, the other pain will need to be overcome, but I found it easier to manage knowing that it was healing pain. Jan 9 is not that far away, will be here before you know it.
Hernan, LHR 8/24/2010, RHR 11/29/2010 - Cormet, Dr. Snyder

chris finn

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #13 on: December 29, 2011, 04:09:47 PM »
I have had tremdous results with Tramadol, for the hips and for a set of spine issues.  It is a wonder drug: very low side effects (digestive slow down is the only one), and it works great for low to upper moderate pain (3 to 7 or 8 on pain scale).  No euphoria, maybe a bit of edgyness (like a couple extra cups of tea).
Hope it helps

Dan

Really??? ...it messes me up totally.  :(
BIRMINGHAM RESURFACE, LEFT HIP, 9TH DEC 2010,BY MR A. NORRISH...CONSULTANT-SURGEON, ADDENBROOKE`S HOSPITAL...CAMBRIDGE UK

Dan L

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #14 on: December 30, 2011, 11:43:04 AM »
Chris;

I have taken it as needed only for spine issues for more than 10+ years, and other than constipation, it has changed my life, allowed me to work and do stuff etc.  I only take one 50 mg per day mostly, and for me, has no really bad side effects.  Good for pain below severe levels.  A slight bit of jitters, like too many cups of Earl Grey, only sometimes.  Can't take within 4 - 5 hours of bedtime though-- it keeps me up.
 
Vicodin for me is not well tolerated, too much euphoria and not enough pain reduction.  Used to take darvocet for more severe pain and it was better for me, but it is off the market.

I also rely alot on 8-hour tylenol (without benedryl in it) for sleeping: it lasts the 8 hours and is effective on dull aches (like dull hip recovery pain) and chronic pain up to a 4 or 5 on the scale (I still have a fair amount of that with my spine issues from time to time). 
LBHR Dr Brooks, 10/2011; RBHR 2/2012

chris finn

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #15 on: December 30, 2011, 02:48:32 PM »
It takes away the pain...but I get "cotton wool brain" (cant concentrate...or think straight) and huge mood swings, plus I was told no driving, which is a large part of my job.

 I was on it for over 5 years..and its the next step up painkiller wise for me, but Im puting it off for as long as possible because I dont like the feeling of losing control (Im a 1 beer man because I dont like to lose control ) but there is no denying that it is a good pain killer....so unless they sort me out soon, I guess I will be back on it  ??? ???
BIRMINGHAM RESURFACE, LEFT HIP, 9TH DEC 2010,BY MR A. NORRISH...CONSULTANT-SURGEON, ADDENBROOKE`S HOSPITAL...CAMBRIDGE UK

Luanna

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #16 on: December 30, 2011, 05:37:17 PM »
mslendzion, sure hoping you are able to tolerate the current pain as you approach your January surgery date. Not that far off and it sounds like you are able to manage it with your current medications until then.

chris, There are so many good pain medication options now. I go to a pain management specialist and have been using a medication called ketamine that is made at a compounding pharmacy. It is also used by US troops in the field because it is strong but does not impair cognitive functioning. They can continue to defend themselves (if conscious) and they can help the medic get them out of harms way. It has a bad rap because it is also used by people illegally as a recreational drug.

The other drug that we are looking at for me as I work myself through recovery is a patch drug called Butrans. I've not tried it yet, but may if necessary. Pain keeps me from being able to make progress so I want to minimize it as much as possible. I'm sure there are other meds out there that might fit your needs without causing awful side effects.

Luanna
« Last Edit: December 30, 2011, 05:38:26 PM by Luanna »
RHR 8/30/2011 - Dr. Pritchett - Stryker Trident Shell /X3 Poly liner acetabular cup. BHR head.

chris finn

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #17 on: December 30, 2011, 05:55:02 PM »
Ive tried Butrans ..its not bad actually

Ketamine !! ....isnt that a horse tranqualizer or something  ;) :-X
BIRMINGHAM RESURFACE, LEFT HIP, 9TH DEC 2010,BY MR A. NORRISH...CONSULTANT-SURGEON, ADDENBROOKE`S HOSPITAL...CAMBRIDGE UK

Luanna

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #18 on: December 30, 2011, 06:41:08 PM »
Horse tranquilizer? Well that explains why I've had the urge to whinny like a horse lately and my feet are looking more like hooves. Guess it's time to switch meds....those are definitely undesirable side effects!!  ;)

Luanna
RHR 8/30/2011 - Dr. Pritchett - Stryker Trident Shell /X3 Poly liner acetabular cup. BHR head.

Two4One

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Re: 2weeks pre op. what can I take for pain?
« Reply #19 on: December 30, 2011, 06:43:10 PM »
Quote
I go to a pain management specialist and have been using a medication called ketamine that is made at a compounding pharmacy.
- Luanna

Hi all,

Actually ketamine is the cutting edge in acute chronic pain management and is believed to work by helping your body push 'the reset' button.  From what I've read, the different progressive pain management centers scattered like hen's teeth across the country have had great success with ketamine.  Extraordinary success, really.  From what I've read, you take it in a very controlled setting, and if effective,it lasts!

I researched ketamine and asked my pain doc, but he's old school, and said "you want to trip ball? NO." Lol  What do you expect from the conservative Midwest?

If I had not found a diagnosis for my heretofore blinding 2 yr pre op pain and subsequently 'pulled the trigger' on the starter pistol of hip resurfacing, I most definitely would have gone to Chicago and tried ketamine for relief.  I KNOW my bilaterals will be successful because I was fortunate enough to have a skilled surgeon, I'm gifted with the desire to follow the best post op protocol out there, and I have a crack team in place to guide me to full and healthy hips.

« Last Edit: December 30, 2011, 06:46:31 PM by Two4One »
"I was inspired by the very idea of turning the wildest figments of your imagination into something real and creating a life for yourself." - Ken Ilgunas

12/11 Failed Bilateral BHR by Dr. Schmitt  3/14 Positive Metal – LTT for Nickel Allergy.   11/14 Bilat Ceramic/Titanium Revisions.

 

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