Dr. Regan and ADR Explant Surgery

[vnf]

Jim

One thing to consider....ask the doctor for his personal email.

I've read sooo many times about people who cannot reach their doctor after
their surgery when they are having a problem and want to discuss it with THE DOCTOR. It seems that the doctor is very busy with the next surgery but then you can't have access to them anymore.
I find that frustrating. I paid for the doctor...not the staff.
Back in my post op days, when I discussed this with Dr. Boeree, he was so confident that I wouldn't have any problems, he gave me his home phone, cell phone, email, everything just to make me feel better.
I told him this pre op because I was very worried about it because I had seen so many people post this online.
Speak up now and ask for a way to reach THE DOCTOR.
The staff is overworked already and to be honest, someone who is not in pain doesn't have the urgency that the person is pain has!
I don't know about now but back when I was considering doctor's, even Clavel gave me his cell phone. Dr. Zigler gave me his personal email when I was talking with him.

It's a big concern to me and I let them know it right up front.
Already told Zeeger's the same thing.
I'm paying for the doctor not the staff. He understood and told me not to worry. We'll see but I did make him aware so I hope he sticks to it.

Just my opinion but this is a big concern to me.

[Jim M2]

Hi Vicki,

I think asking for Dr. Regan's email is great advice. Thanks,

[Jim M2]

The explant to fusion surgery is scheduled for Aug 6, two weeks from today. I took the earliest date they offered. It will be at St. John's in Santa Monica. That's all I know at this point. Here's some questions for those who have been in the hospital lately.

When should I stop taking Ibuprofen?
Can my wife and daughter stay overnight in the hospital room?

I'm sure I'll have many more questions over the next two weeks.
Thank you,

[fuzzy]

I wish you the best for your upcoming surgery, Jim.

[Maria]

Hey Jim,
Generally with any surgeries it's recommended to stop Nsaids at least 14 days prior to surgery. It sounds like you'll have time to do that. You should call and verify this with Dr. Regan's office in case that's not the case.

Re wife/dau in room I would imagine it depends if you're getting a private room? Are all rooms at St. John's private? It's been a long time since I was there. You can call the hospital and ask about spouse/dau staying overnight because I'm sure they have a policy with regard to that and can answer that question for you. It may be that you can only have one person stay in the room with you and if so hopefully there will be a reclining chair or a cot can be brought in.

[Jim M2]

Thanks Fuzzy.

Maria, I called Dr. Regan's office and they told me to stop taking Ibuprofen and any other blood thinning medications right away. They are sending out an info package tomorrow.

___
Here's something new to me. For a PLIF my boss said he was transported by ambulance to a rehab center where he stayed for 2 or 3 weeks after leaving the hospital. I asked Dr. Regan's office about this and he said they would recommend a rehab center near the hospital. OMG!

[Maria]

Hey Jim,
Surgery date is coming up pretty soon.. have you heard anything else? Any other news about the rehab facility? I think if you get into a 5 star one things should go well though it's nice to have a family member or very close friend close by just in case someone has to act as your advocate. Hope all is going well~ Maria

[sahuaro]

I just saw your post. I wish you the best for the surgery and recovery.
Dr. Regan was the surgeon for my cervical ADR and I have referred other patients here to him. So I think you've made a great choice! (And it was through Mark that I was able to see him.)

By now, Dr. Regan has sent directions regarding medications to stop and you've had your pre-surgery physical. My surgery was at a different hospital, so I don't know the policies at your hospital.

Barbara

[Jim M2]

The insurance pre-approval didn't come through. They took me off Dr. Regan's schedule until the pre-approval does come through. I'm very disappointed.

I haven't heard a thing from Dr. Regan's office about preparations for surgery.

I appreciate the kind thoughts from everyone.

[nomorepain]

interesting situation, I sometimes wonder what happens if the adr breaks down, or my spine around the adr.

[Maria]

Was wondering if you heard anything yet Jim though I guess not or you'd update. Frustrating situation is what I would call it. Hope you'll get good news soon.