Healing Question

[Cooker]

Hi,

I know we are told about twelve weeks for the sternum to heal. What about inside?? I had AVR and am not realy sure what they had to do/cut to replace it with my St Jude. It seems to me that tissue would heal faster than bone.

Thanks,

Tom

 

[geebee]

You are correct, the tissue is healed by the time the sternum is healed (unless there is some underlying issue such as infection). The muscles can stay irritated for a longer time which is why you might have residual pain longer than the 12 weeks or so.

 

[Cooker]

Thanks Gina...do you know if there is any way that I can get a copy of the video of my OHS? Hope that is not morbid or anything

Tom

 

[geebee]

Not morbid at all. I asked if my second OHS could be filmed but the hospital had not finished setting up their equipment (this was in 1982). I forgot about asking for my third because I was so sick. Not sure if it was filmed or not but I would have liked to see it.
I would call the hospital to find out if they automatically film OHS without giving your name in case you get someone who thinks you are looking to cause trouble. Once you know whether there is a film, they should be able to tell you how to get a copy.

 

[MikeHeim]

I'd be extremely shocked if they actually gave you a video of your surgery. Pretty serious liability issue on their part.

 

[geebee]

I'd be extremely shocked if they actually gave you a video of your surgery. Pretty serious liability issue on their part.

Actually, if there is a video - they have no choice under HIPAA regulations. The trick is getting them to admit there is a film to "fight" over. I went through a similar issue when I requested a copy of my TEE and cardiac cath tapes. I had a heck of a time getting them but finally won out.