Hi Carlos53, it’s understandable to be apprehensive and nervous.
Do your pelvic floor exercises, keep fit, stay positive that this operation will rid you of your cancer.
Hospital staff from cleaners, nurses, doctors are so professional. Trust your team.
Take loose fitting trousers, joggers are probably best for when you are coming home.
You will probably come round In high dependency depending on your hospital before transfer to a ward.
It takes a bit time to get used to having a catheter but it is very manageable.
The days after the operation don’t sit for too long, reclining is probably best it takes pressure of your nether regions! I found out to my cost and pain I had sat upright in a chair too long the day after the operation. Start gentle moving as soon as you can, I walked up and down the ward periodically and then round the garden or house when I got home. I started gingerly walking down the street and back on day 4 gradually increasing distance.
I had a plastic stand for my night catheter bag but a plastic bucket will also accommodate it.
Let people help you, don’t overdo things.
Best of luck, hope all goes well.
|
User
Hi Carlos,
Before you leave hospital, it's well worth practicing catheter bag emptying/changing drills while staff are on hand for support (Same goes for showering). My catheter bag was on my lower leg and difficult to reach in the first few days, so I was reliant on my other half for help. Bending down can be difficult with a sore swollen abdomen.
You may be on a busy ward, but don't be afraid to ask questions if there's something you're not happy with.
Also, it's worth thinking how you're going to get home when you leave hospital.
Take it easy post op, keep mobile, but avoid stretching and lifting which can be frustrating.
Good luck.
Kev.
User
Start pelvic floor exercises now. And then again after catheter removal about a week after the op.
General exercise is also good, the fitter you are the better.
Down load the tool kit from this site. There's loads of other info downloads too.
Day after the op I was told to walk the corridor (about 40 metres) 25 times before being discharged at lunch time. Not easy but the surgeon kept emphasising to keep moving but gently. It helps bowel activation and stops everything seizing up.
Buy some jogging bottoms for getting home.
Get some pads but not to many, you may not need them for long.
Depending on the type of bag you have it will have just a hook or a frame to hang it on, get a bucket or similar to hang it over. I used a cat litter tray underneath it.
My night bag was reusable but had to be washed and flushed daily. It will connect to the leg beg. Shower and do the whole lot at once. Have some way to hang the night bag in the shower to dry ready for next night. And wash the leg bag outer at the same time.
I had anti blood clot stockings for 28 days and same for injections which are with a very fine needle and painless.
I had two types of laxetives but fybergel drink also helps.
Eat healthy and exercise gently at first.
I had an hour taxi drive to the airport then flight home three days after the op. The drive was the worst, you need a slow smooth careful driver, mine wasn't.
All in all its not actually as bad as you might be thinking.
Good luck with the op and recovery
Cheers
Bill
User
User
Do take stool softeners such as Fybogel for a couple of days before you go into hospital. A side effect of the opiate painkillers such as morphine that you'll be given is severe constipation and that's NOT a nice thing to deal with when you've had your abdominal muscles cut by surgery. I found that out the hard way! I couldn't move my bowels for over a week after my surgery and ended up being taken to hospital by ambulance to have an enema. It solved the problem, but far better to avoid it in the first place.
This is major abdominal surgery and it'll take you a long time (several months) to fully get over it. Be as active as you can, but listen to what your body tells you with its pain signals. You won't be able to lift anything heavier than a bag of sugar for a month after surgery. Don't try or you'll regret it! I nearly passed out when I stupidly tried to push a supermarket trolley around Sainsbury's a week after I came out of hospital. Don't do it ๐. I could walk, but pushing uses those abdominal muscles you won't have for a while.
Very best of luck with your surgery,
Chris
Edited by member 21 Jun 2020 at 18:46
| Reason: Not specified
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHi thanks for the advice it’s a big help. I thought I was dealing with the animal they call cancer until my surgeon rang with the date then the panic and anxiety kicked in all the usual thoughts I’m sure all of us go through, hasn’t helped the covid situation Was supposed to have this op done end of Feb.
May I ask how long ago did you have your surgery ? And how are you ?
Carl.
My surgery was November 2019 and I'm 56 (more info in my bio). I was anxious too, but Hopefully having that date now will help you to focus physically and mentally.
Good luck.
Kev.
Edited by member 21 Jun 2020 at 20:10
| Reason: Not specified
User
Good luck and best wishes for a speedy recovery. My husband has his first telephone consultation with surgeon this Friday.
User
Good luck with it. I am off for surgery on Thursday and will let you know how it goes.
J
User
I'm 68 and had my RALP on March 9th. I didn't stress out much, but I did do my best to prepare.
I used existing (old) tracksuit bottoms (my newer ones are slim-fit, so unsuitable) while I had the catheter, but didn't buy anything special. They were fine, really don't need to be that loose, just so nothing catches. Personally I also found trunk-style pants a help as they give support.
I found that I was most comfortable on the sofa (it is a very comfy sofa) for the first few weeks after the op. Didn't like lying down, but my office chair was definitely a no-no. Cushions are helpful. Do get some exercise - you should walk regularly for 5 minutes while you're awake.
My wife stopped me doing any lifting until the surgeon said it was OK - been pushing supermarket trollies since (and other stuff). Just don't do stuff too early - follow instructions. It took a while for all my stitches to come out, but I never had any real problems. Just a few small scars now; nothing compared to the one I have from melanoma.
While the anti-clot injections lasted 28 days for me, I was told I could take the stockings off after 14. Personally I found the stockings more of a pain than the injections, so was glad about that.
Apart from a bit of urge incontinence (which is apparently down to me having had a very large prostate for a dozen years) not really needed any pads (dry at night from day catheter came out). Definitely do the pelvic floor exercises - I find the NHS Squeezy App helpful. You can also get a pack from this site, which I would recommend, that includes some pads/pants.
I did get a urinary tract infection for which I had to take a course of antibiotics. Since been told that Cranberry Juice helps ward against this, so if you are OK with the taste, I would recommend drinking it (I dilute it 50/50 with water, not having a sweet tooth). Drinking plenty of liquid is also good for your bowel movement.
User
I picked up some canterbury mens open ham stadium pants....absolute game changer with full length zips downt eh outside of the legs. Servicing the catheter bag was a breeze and enough room etc. Plenty of other zip pockets for other things and spare pads etc. Buy a couple as very warm and comfy too :-)
TG
User
Hi Carlos. I had my surgery last Thursday and walked a mile today.
I think the advice you been given covers it all. I have been pleasantly surprised about the after affects of the surgery. Really not much pain and wounds healing quickly.
I think advice around fitness and diet are key. Keep to easily digestible meals before and after surgery. I had a really slow bowel response after the surgery and this has been my biggest issue. Not fun being constipated with 6 holes in your abdomen. I took a while to get over the GA and had no exercise on the first day. Try to walk if you can.
This link is from one of the other posters and is very good.
https://www.santishealth.org/prostate-cancer-information-centre/top-10-tips-for-patients-considering-a-robotic-radical-prostatectomy/
All the best,
J
User
Carlos,
I was very anxious as well. Anybody would be. BUT I had open surgery and they banged in loads of staples. Never really hurt and has healed up just fine. Didn't feel a thing when they took them out. The sense of relief of waking up in recovery after the operation knowing it was behind me was imense.
I'm 14 weeks after and have had no incontinence issues at all since about week 10. Managed sex after about 4 weeks ....but wasn't my best ever performance ;-) Things have progressed positively since and although taking cialis still (which is no big deal) things getting slowly back to normal. Now, everyone is different, nothing comes with guarantees etc but if they are able to spare the nerves then it puts you in with a really good chance. Try not to worry and keep us updated
User
User
Hi Carl. Yes I had stitches. I was thinking the same about people that have had staples, but who knows.
You are in the same position as I was a couple of weeks ago. I got a couple of very positive messages from folks on here, and it made all the difference. Hence why I am reaching out to you.
Take care and hope all goes well next week.
J
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHi. I’m so chuffed that your doing so well after surgery, it’s nice to read good stories instead of the doom and gloom. Can I ask , did you have staples or stitches in your incisions ? It seems like a lot of guys have had staples sounds gruesome.
I’m having my surgery in Cardiff, I’ve got a covid test at 9am Monday morning. If I’m honest I’m getting really anxious as Thursday draws closer trying to get my mind around everything. Since my diagnosis I’ve been worried about the impact of ED will have on y marriage, even though I’m 53 I’ve only been married since 2017 so naturally lots of negative and insecure thoughts fill my mind on a daily basis. When I hear about positive stories like yours it takes the edge of the negative, so thank you for that keep them coming.
Stay safe and keep well
Carl.
OK Carl well here's another positive one for you then...
Surgery 12th June 2020. 4th night after surgery I felt "nocturnal stirrings down there", which I took to be an early indicator of successful nerve sparing. ๐ (Subsequently confirmed once catheter properly out). It was a bit uncomfortable though with a catheter in.
I've had a really good recovery so far with the one bad thing being that I had bad pain after TWOC1 (TWOC = trial without catheter), so they retubed me for another few days (not a common occurence though). But after TWOC2 it was fine and I used a total of 2 pads over 2 days and have been going padless with zero accidents for 6 days now (today is the 7th).
I've also been gradually increasing the walking. 2.9 miles today (day 21 post op).
Wounds, I had dissolvable stitches and glue. That's all gone now and the wounds are a little bit red but basically healed. No pain relief required any more and a pretty much full range of movement.
One more week of injections and compression socks to go and then I can start some more vigorous exercise, but still 3 weeks before I can ride a bike.
I hope your experience proves to be as positive or more so than mine. But as others have said. Waking up in recovery, it's like "phew - still here then. Oooh and I can see too. I'll take it." And then they told me I'd been trying to take out my canula while I was out of it. ๐
Edited by member 04 Jul 2020 at 17:29
| Reason: clarification of TWOC
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Hi Carl,
I was surprised to have metal staples. They gave me a staple remover to give to the GP. It was a very basic hook. They're thicker than paper staples and just make two holes. When they're out they leave two tracks of red marks but now I wouldn't know where the holes were. No problem at all.
If you click on this link it takes you to a photo of mine. I hope.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/vbvGQhUy9z3F3JEj9u8gBPN0DFlxJts1TVpRUzn39oC9ARX7ec7v2I8EQX44OFtv3tufvWzpoSgbudB7xEYFYct3Jm6yeIUPI0aWEDT_niuZJOvf3g=w1280
I was also surprised to find they shaved my stomach.
I suppose I was anxious before the op but it was balanced by excitement. Getting that thing out was all I could think about. On awakening I had no pain at all which seemed incredible and felt quite exhilarated that 3 months of worry was gone, removed. I knew that worry would be replaced by something else to worry about and I know that we live from psa test to psa test but it's been given a good shot.
All the best for Thursday. If you say what time it is I'll remember and think about you in the hospital.
Regards
Peter
Edited by member 04 Jul 2020 at 20:23
| Reason: Not specified
User
Hi Peter my surgery is booked for 7:30 am ..... Hope your well and not to worried about the psa roulette
Carl..
User
Carlos
From my experience finding solutions to the ED issue was fun.
Thanks Chris
User
Hopefully Carlos had a successful op this morning.
User
Hope so. I expect he'll let us know after he gets home (tomorrow?) ๐
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos, hope all went well yesterday. I had surgery 18 months ago , and living in Belfast the hospitals did not offer Radical Prostatectomy so my wife and I took a flight a day before the operation at Cambridge. We took a few extra days after the operation in the hospital and then at a local hotel before flying back to Belfast. I can say that having surgery worked very well for me. I was told to exercise everyday after the operation and as others have mentioned was only allowed to leave the ward once I had completed 50 laps of the ward! 18 months on and I am grand. First few weeks needed to watch how long I was out for a walk to avoid being cut short , but this steadily got better as the weeks progressed. Pelvic floor exercises are essential, and these help considerably , but need to be continued on a regular basis to provide that extra help and confidence when you are out. ED is work in progress, and you need to be patient , thankfully I was lucky that I nerve sparing, which helped. Not easy going through what you are doing , during these bizarre times , but hope you are coping well and my best wishes to you.
regards
Keithyboy
Keithyboy
User
Hi Carlo. Hope everything went well on Thursday. It gets better every day after the surgery.
J
User
Hope you're starting to feel better soon Carl
Did the surgery all go well ?
User
Interesting I was sick on day 2 also. As I say, it gets better every day.
Good luck with the catheter.
J
User
Hi Carlos,
Good to hear that. I had some leakage too which seems to be normal. Make sure you keep the area clean though, and Instagel is always recommended on here.
Kev.
User
I did a few times. Happened when trying to pass wind. Tried to avoid though. Nurse said not to worry. I also note it is described in the handbook I got from hospital.
Glad your surgery has gone well.
J
User
Glad the surgery went well
If you feel the urge to empty your bladder just try and relax and the catheter will do the work. The moment you try to empty your bladder you will get some bypass and leakage. My guess would be this is what you are experiencing
Once you are having bowel movements a level of bypass/leakage is inevitable
You will feel so much better once that catheter is out-not long now
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberSurgery went well according to the main man, no drain in either. Showered today and took dressings off which was really nice. One question I do have is. Is it normal to have a bit of leakage around where the Catheter goes in ?
Carl.
Brilliant Carl. Good to hear from you. Glad it went well. ๐
Yes, leakage around the catheter (bypass) is perfectly normal. I was told particularly when farting or having a poo. This is one of the reasons for washing the catheter each time you have a bowel movement (in my instructions, anyway).
If you can keep the catheter really clean you will reduce the chance of getting a UTI. I had to change my shorts at least daily as they can get a bit gross.
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos
Good to hear all went well, take it easy but not too easy. Think the previous posts have covered keep Catheter clean and have some instilagel or hydrocaine in case of soreness. Make sure the catheter joints are tight. I attach my night bag tube to a strap around the ankle reduces the risk of pulling things apart. Make the most of some undisturbed nights.
I showered using non scented soap or gel, wash the end of the penis and the first bit of the pipe. A couple of days in and you will get more confidence in feeling and washing the area.
Prior to showering I drained the leg bag removed the bag straps and tucked the bag tap under the thigh strap. Once I had dried myself I would fit a new/ dry strap to the other leg and transfer the catheter to the that leg, refit the dry leg bag straps. Alternating legs was recommended and it means you can dry the leg where the strap was.
Thanks Chris
Edited by member 13 Jul 2020 at 21:51
| Reason: Not specified
User
Glad things went well Carl and you are back home. It will be a great relief getting the catheter out. You are experiencing all the typical stages of recovery from this operation, and certainly brings back memories for me. Good thing is that it doesn't last long and you will find as each day and week passes you gain strength and things start to get back to near normal. Remember to get a daily walk in if you can , I found the exercise was extremely important both physically and mentally. I'm sure you are glad is all over.
Best wishes
Keithyboy
User
Hi Carlos,
Looking good, you will find massive changes each day now. (ie effect of major op and drugs being cleaned out etc). Feel free to check my profile. I'm post op +5yrs now and much older than you !
Are you booked in this week for catheter out them ? Plenty of great advice from posters already , basically 'listen to your body'.
All the best Gordon
User
Hi Carlos, It's good to know it's going well. Toilet problems with catheter and then after catheter are common but as long as you don't strain it should be alright. I found sitting down put a strain on the pipe and a bit of blood would make the bag contents go rose. It's worrying at first. Sometimes when you're walking the ball in the bladder can cause blood as well.
I hadn't told anyone of my op and decided to visit the neighbour's wearing my bag. It might not bring a smile to everyone but I was thinking I never thought I'd urinate sitting on their sofa while I'm talking to them. Wondering what I'd say if there was a gurgling or if the bag burst open. Stomach playing up I suppose.
All the best, Peter
User
Glad to hear catheter is out. ๐Feels good doesn't it?
Re. continence, it might depend a bit on how your internal stitching is. Sometimes the stitching can hold the valve a bit open, but will eventually dissolve away. Are you still taking painkillers? If not, it might be worth taking them so that you can do the pelvic floor exercises more easily?
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos, things are still healing so perhaps expecting a bit too much but good to be positive. Frequently guys say they are dry at night first and a small leakage at night sounds promising. Standing is almost always a reason to leak as you squash the bladder.
Hope all goes well.
Thanks Chris
User
Hi Carlos,
Glad for you that the catheter is out. Don't worry at all about any leakage at night. I leaked at night a bit for at least 6 weeks- probably not helped by a glass or 2 of wine. I'd be dry through the morning then start leaking a bit as the day progresses also or bending over or something. Just relax, don't stress and it will continue to improve I'm sure. It just takes a while for you to heal and for your brain to readjust
User
Hi Carlos, what a relief it must feel to be two weeks on from your operation after your anxious wait, etc. So pleased to hear you’re feeling ok in yourself.
Good luck with healing process going forward ๐
Ange x
Show Most Thanked Posts
User
Hi Carlos53, it’s understandable to be apprehensive and nervous.
Do your pelvic floor exercises, keep fit, stay positive that this operation will rid you of your cancer.
Hospital staff from cleaners, nurses, doctors are so professional. Trust your team.
Take loose fitting trousers, joggers are probably best for when you are coming home.
You will probably come round In high dependency depending on your hospital before transfer to a ward.
It takes a bit time to get used to having a catheter but it is very manageable.
The days after the operation don’t sit for too long, reclining is probably best it takes pressure of your nether regions! I found out to my cost and pain I had sat upright in a chair too long the day after the operation. Start gentle moving as soon as you can, I walked up and down the ward periodically and then round the garden or house when I got home. I started gingerly walking down the street and back on day 4 gradually increasing distance.
I had a plastic stand for my night catheter bag but a plastic bucket will also accommodate it.
Let people help you, don’t overdo things.
Best of luck, hope all goes well.
|
User
Hi Carlos,
Before you leave hospital, it's well worth practicing catheter bag emptying/changing drills while staff are on hand for support (Same goes for showering). My catheter bag was on my lower leg and difficult to reach in the first few days, so I was reliant on my other half for help. Bending down can be difficult with a sore swollen abdomen.
You may be on a busy ward, but don't be afraid to ask questions if there's something you're not happy with.
Also, it's worth thinking how you're going to get home when you leave hospital.
Take it easy post op, keep mobile, but avoid stretching and lifting which can be frustrating.
Good luck.
Kev.
User
Hi thanks for the advice it’s a big help. I thought I was dealing with the animal they call cancer until my surgeon rang with the date then the panic and anxiety kicked in all the usual thoughts I’m sure all of us go through, hasn’t helped the covid situation Was supposed to have this op done end of Feb.
May I ask how long ago did you have your surgery ? And how are you ?
Carl.
User
Start pelvic floor exercises now. And then again after catheter removal about a week after the op.
General exercise is also good, the fitter you are the better.
Down load the tool kit from this site. There's loads of other info downloads too.
Day after the op I was told to walk the corridor (about 40 metres) 25 times before being discharged at lunch time. Not easy but the surgeon kept emphasising to keep moving but gently. It helps bowel activation and stops everything seizing up.
Buy some jogging bottoms for getting home.
Get some pads but not to many, you may not need them for long.
Depending on the type of bag you have it will have just a hook or a frame to hang it on, get a bucket or similar to hang it over. I used a cat litter tray underneath it.
My night bag was reusable but had to be washed and flushed daily. It will connect to the leg beg. Shower and do the whole lot at once. Have some way to hang the night bag in the shower to dry ready for next night. And wash the leg bag outer at the same time.
I had anti blood clot stockings for 28 days and same for injections which are with a very fine needle and painless.
I had two types of laxetives but fybergel drink also helps.
Eat healthy and exercise gently at first.
I had an hour taxi drive to the airport then flight home three days after the op. The drive was the worst, you need a slow smooth careful driver, mine wasn't.
All in all its not actually as bad as you might be thinking.
Good luck with the op and recovery
Cheers
Bill
User
User
Do take stool softeners such as Fybogel for a couple of days before you go into hospital. A side effect of the opiate painkillers such as morphine that you'll be given is severe constipation and that's NOT a nice thing to deal with when you've had your abdominal muscles cut by surgery. I found that out the hard way! I couldn't move my bowels for over a week after my surgery and ended up being taken to hospital by ambulance to have an enema. It solved the problem, but far better to avoid it in the first place.
This is major abdominal surgery and it'll take you a long time (several months) to fully get over it. Be as active as you can, but listen to what your body tells you with its pain signals. You won't be able to lift anything heavier than a bag of sugar for a month after surgery. Don't try or you'll regret it! I nearly passed out when I stupidly tried to push a supermarket trolley around Sainsbury's a week after I came out of hospital. Don't do it ๐. I could walk, but pushing uses those abdominal muscles you won't have for a while.
Very best of luck with your surgery,
Chris
Edited by member 21 Jun 2020 at 18:46
| Reason: Not specified
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHi thanks for the advice it’s a big help. I thought I was dealing with the animal they call cancer until my surgeon rang with the date then the panic and anxiety kicked in all the usual thoughts I’m sure all of us go through, hasn’t helped the covid situation Was supposed to have this op done end of Feb.
May I ask how long ago did you have your surgery ? And how are you ?
Carl.
My surgery was November 2019 and I'm 56 (more info in my bio). I was anxious too, but Hopefully having that date now will help you to focus physically and mentally.
Good luck.
Kev.
Edited by member 21 Jun 2020 at 20:10
| Reason: Not specified
User
Thanks guys for all the great advice, especially the not pushing a shopping trolley ๐
Carlos
User
Hi Carlos,
I'm 57 and had my RP March 23rd this year. Like you I was really anxious and tbh tried not to think about it too much until the day of the operation. There is only a certain amount of preparation you can do-staying fit and healthy the most important. There is lots of really good advice on here. Good luck and hope all goes well
User
My tips for RALP though mine was in 2010.
The love, care, support and empathy of a loving partner
Transport, comfortable non commuter transport from the hospital to home
Plenty of loose fitting (two sizes too big) jogging bottoms
Lots of new fresh soft towels
Mild unfragranced baby soaps, wipes and lotions
Wear flip flops or easy to get on slippers. You don’t want to be Bending down doing shoes up.
A fully charged tablet, laptop or device. You’ll need all entertainment at hand!
Plenty or cushions to support you as you Will recline In the most awkward if angles on your couch. You need to be comfortable.
Make sure you have a full medical kit of appropriate tubes, bags, taps, tape and relevant gear.
There is more but this basic survival kit will help you over the first difficult week.
Good luck brother
Edited by member 22 Jun 2020 at 07:29
| Reason: Typo
User
As an addendum, there are amazing playlists of calming, sleep inducing music on YouTube. Use them. They really work. I was the worlds biggest stresshead,
Edited by member 22 Jun 2020 at 07:28
| Reason: Not specified
User
Good luck and best wishes for a speedy recovery. My husband has his first telephone consultation with surgeon this Friday.
User
Good luck with it. I am off for surgery on Thursday and will let you know how it goes.
J
User
I'm 68 and had my RALP on March 9th. I didn't stress out much, but I did do my best to prepare.
I used existing (old) tracksuit bottoms (my newer ones are slim-fit, so unsuitable) while I had the catheter, but didn't buy anything special. They were fine, really don't need to be that loose, just so nothing catches. Personally I also found trunk-style pants a help as they give support.
I found that I was most comfortable on the sofa (it is a very comfy sofa) for the first few weeks after the op. Didn't like lying down, but my office chair was definitely a no-no. Cushions are helpful. Do get some exercise - you should walk regularly for 5 minutes while you're awake.
My wife stopped me doing any lifting until the surgeon said it was OK - been pushing supermarket trollies since (and other stuff). Just don't do stuff too early - follow instructions. It took a while for all my stitches to come out, but I never had any real problems. Just a few small scars now; nothing compared to the one I have from melanoma.
While the anti-clot injections lasted 28 days for me, I was told I could take the stockings off after 14. Personally I found the stockings more of a pain than the injections, so was glad about that.
Apart from a bit of urge incontinence (which is apparently down to me having had a very large prostate for a dozen years) not really needed any pads (dry at night from day catheter came out). Definitely do the pelvic floor exercises - I find the NHS Squeezy App helpful. You can also get a pack from this site, which I would recommend, that includes some pads/pants.
I did get a urinary tract infection for which I had to take a course of antibiotics. Since been told that Cranberry Juice helps ward against this, so if you are OK with the taste, I would recommend drinking it (I dilute it 50/50 with water, not having a sweet tooth). Drinking plenty of liquid is also good for your bowel movement.
User
I picked up some canterbury mens open ham stadium pants....absolute game changer with full length zips downt eh outside of the legs. Servicing the catheter bag was a breeze and enough room etc. Plenty of other zip pockets for other things and spare pads etc. Buy a couple as very warm and comfy too :-)
TG
User
Just picking up on the comment about cranberry juice - it is imprortant that this is pure juice rather than from concentrate. The cheapest (and least sweet option) is to buy fresh (in season) or frozen cranberries and zap them in the food processor / juicer.
"Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards." Soren Kierkegaard
|
User
Best of luck. I am 18 months post op also with G3.4. Doing well on the continence and ED front but with some PSA anxiety as the test approach.
User
Hi Carlos. I had my surgery last Thursday and walked a mile today.
I think the advice you been given covers it all. I have been pleasantly surprised about the after affects of the surgery. Really not much pain and wounds healing quickly.
I think advice around fitness and diet are key. Keep to easily digestible meals before and after surgery. I had a really slow bowel response after the surgery and this has been my biggest issue. Not fun being constipated with 6 holes in your abdomen. I took a while to get over the GA and had no exercise on the first day. Try to walk if you can.
This link is from one of the other posters and is very good.
https://www.santishealth.org/prostate-cancer-information-centre/top-10-tips-for-patients-considering-a-robotic-radical-prostatectomy/
All the best,
J
User
Hi Carlos53. Hope you are doing well today.
I wanted to let you know how well I feel with surgery less than two weeks ago. My continence is very good and much better than could have imagined.
Stay strong and good luck for next week.
J
User
Hi. I’m so chuffed that your doing so well after surgery, it’s nice to read good stories instead of the doom and gloom. Can I ask , did you have staples or stitches in your incisions ? It seems like a lot of guys have had staples sounds gruesome.
I’m having my surgery in Cardiff, I’ve got a covid test at 9am Monday morning. If I’m honest I’m getting really anxious as Thursday draws closer trying to get my mind around everything. Since my diagnosis I’ve been worried about the impact of ED will have on y marriage, even though I’m 53 I’ve only been married since 2017 so naturally lots of negative and insecure thoughts fill my mind on a daily basis. When I hear about positive stories like yours it takes the edge of the negative, so thank you for that keep them coming.
Stay safe and keep well
Carl.
User
Carlos,
I was very anxious as well. Anybody would be. BUT I had open surgery and they banged in loads of staples. Never really hurt and has healed up just fine. Didn't feel a thing when they took them out. The sense of relief of waking up in recovery after the operation knowing it was behind me was imense.
I'm 14 weeks after and have had no incontinence issues at all since about week 10. Managed sex after about 4 weeks ....but wasn't my best ever performance ;-) Things have progressed positively since and although taking cialis still (which is no big deal) things getting slowly back to normal. Now, everyone is different, nothing comes with guarantees etc but if they are able to spare the nerves then it puts you in with a really good chance. Try not to worry and keep us updated
User
User
Hi Carl. Yes I had stitches. I was thinking the same about people that have had staples, but who knows.
You are in the same position as I was a couple of weeks ago. I got a couple of very positive messages from folks on here, and it made all the difference. Hence why I am reaching out to you.
Take care and hope all goes well next week.
J
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHi. I’m so chuffed that your doing so well after surgery, it’s nice to read good stories instead of the doom and gloom. Can I ask , did you have staples or stitches in your incisions ? It seems like a lot of guys have had staples sounds gruesome.
I’m having my surgery in Cardiff, I’ve got a covid test at 9am Monday morning. If I’m honest I’m getting really anxious as Thursday draws closer trying to get my mind around everything. Since my diagnosis I’ve been worried about the impact of ED will have on y marriage, even though I’m 53 I’ve only been married since 2017 so naturally lots of negative and insecure thoughts fill my mind on a daily basis. When I hear about positive stories like yours it takes the edge of the negative, so thank you for that keep them coming.
Stay safe and keep well
Carl.
OK Carl well here's another positive one for you then...
Surgery 12th June 2020. 4th night after surgery I felt "nocturnal stirrings down there", which I took to be an early indicator of successful nerve sparing. ๐ (Subsequently confirmed once catheter properly out). It was a bit uncomfortable though with a catheter in.
I've had a really good recovery so far with the one bad thing being that I had bad pain after TWOC1 (TWOC = trial without catheter), so they retubed me for another few days (not a common occurence though). But after TWOC2 it was fine and I used a total of 2 pads over 2 days and have been going padless with zero accidents for 6 days now (today is the 7th).
I've also been gradually increasing the walking. 2.9 miles today (day 21 post op).
Wounds, I had dissolvable stitches and glue. That's all gone now and the wounds are a little bit red but basically healed. No pain relief required any more and a pretty much full range of movement.
One more week of injections and compression socks to go and then I can start some more vigorous exercise, but still 3 weeks before I can ride a bike.
I hope your experience proves to be as positive or more so than mine. But as others have said. Waking up in recovery, it's like "phew - still here then. Oooh and I can see too. I'll take it." And then they told me I'd been trying to take out my canula while I was out of it. ๐
Edited by member 04 Jul 2020 at 17:29
| Reason: clarification of TWOC
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Hi Carl,
I was surprised to have metal staples. They gave me a staple remover to give to the GP. It was a very basic hook. They're thicker than paper staples and just make two holes. When they're out they leave two tracks of red marks but now I wouldn't know where the holes were. No problem at all.
If you click on this link it takes you to a photo of mine. I hope.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/vbvGQhUy9z3F3JEj9u8gBPN0DFlxJts1TVpRUzn39oC9ARX7ec7v2I8EQX44OFtv3tufvWzpoSgbudB7xEYFYct3Jm6yeIUPI0aWEDT_niuZJOvf3g=w1280
I was also surprised to find they shaved my stomach.
I suppose I was anxious before the op but it was balanced by excitement. Getting that thing out was all I could think about. On awakening I had no pain at all which seemed incredible and felt quite exhilarated that 3 months of worry was gone, removed. I knew that worry would be replaced by something else to worry about and I know that we live from psa test to psa test but it's been given a good shot.
All the best for Thursday. If you say what time it is I'll remember and think about you in the hospital.
Regards
Peter
Edited by member 04 Jul 2020 at 20:23
| Reason: Not specified
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Hi Peter my surgery is booked for 7:30 am ..... Hope your well and not to worried about the psa roulette
Carl..
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Carlos
From my experience finding solutions to the ED issue was fun.
Thanks Chris
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Hopefully Carlos had a successful op this morning.
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Hope so. I expect he'll let us know after he gets home (tomorrow?) ๐
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos, hope all went well yesterday. I had surgery 18 months ago , and living in Belfast the hospitals did not offer Radical Prostatectomy so my wife and I took a flight a day before the operation at Cambridge. We took a few extra days after the operation in the hospital and then at a local hotel before flying back to Belfast. I can say that having surgery worked very well for me. I was told to exercise everyday after the operation and as others have mentioned was only allowed to leave the ward once I had completed 50 laps of the ward! 18 months on and I am grand. First few weeks needed to watch how long I was out for a walk to avoid being cut short , but this steadily got better as the weeks progressed. Pelvic floor exercises are essential, and these help considerably , but need to be continued on a regular basis to provide that extra help and confidence when you are out. ED is work in progress, and you need to be patient , thankfully I was lucky that I nerve sparing, which helped. Not easy going through what you are doing , during these bizarre times , but hope you are coping well and my best wishes to you.
regards
Keithyboy
Keithyboy
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Hi Carlo. Hope everything went well on Thursday. It gets better every day after the surgery.
J
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Hi. Had my surgery on Thursday and let home on Friday afternoon, sat was awful being sick all day which was not only worrying but incredibly painful. Thankfully this nausea stopped and although still not feeling great I’m keeping food down so that’s a positive.
Catheter is a bit of struggle and inconvenience but it’s a necessary evil, looking forward to getting it out and trying to have a decent nights sleep.
Onwards and upwards
Carl
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Hope you're starting to feel better soon Carl
Did the surgery all go well ?
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Interesting I was sick on day 2 also. As I say, it gets better every day.
Good luck with the catheter.
J
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Surgery went well according to the main man, no drain in either. Showered today and took dressings off which was really nice. One question I do have is. Is it normal to have a bit of leakage around where the Catheter goes in ?
Carl.
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Hi Carlos,
Good to hear that. I had some leakage too which seems to be normal. Make sure you keep the area clean though, and Instagel is always recommended on here.
Kev.
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I did a few times. Happened when trying to pass wind. Tried to avoid though. Nurse said not to worry. I also note it is described in the handbook I got from hospital.
Glad your surgery has gone well.
J
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Glad the surgery went well
If you feel the urge to empty your bladder just try and relax and the catheter will do the work. The moment you try to empty your bladder you will get some bypass and leakage. My guess would be this is what you are experiencing
Once you are having bowel movements a level of bypass/leakage is inevitable
You will feel so much better once that catheter is out-not long now
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberSurgery went well according to the main man, no drain in either. Showered today and took dressings off which was really nice. One question I do have is. Is it normal to have a bit of leakage around where the Catheter goes in ?
Carl.
Brilliant Carl. Good to hear from you. Glad it went well. ๐
Yes, leakage around the catheter (bypass) is perfectly normal. I was told particularly when farting or having a poo. This is one of the reasons for washing the catheter each time you have a bowel movement (in my instructions, anyway).
If you can keep the catheter really clean you will reduce the chance of getting a UTI. I had to change my shorts at least daily as they can get a bit gross.
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos
Good to hear all went well, take it easy but not too easy. Think the previous posts have covered keep Catheter clean and have some instilagel or hydrocaine in case of soreness. Make sure the catheter joints are tight. I attach my night bag tube to a strap around the ankle reduces the risk of pulling things apart. Make the most of some undisturbed nights.
I showered using non scented soap or gel, wash the end of the penis and the first bit of the pipe. A couple of days in and you will get more confidence in feeling and washing the area.
Prior to showering I drained the leg bag removed the bag straps and tucked the bag tap under the thigh strap. Once I had dried myself I would fit a new/ dry strap to the other leg and transfer the catheter to the that leg, refit the dry leg bag straps. Alternating legs was recommended and it means you can dry the leg where the strap was.
Thanks Chris
Edited by member 13 Jul 2020 at 21:51
| Reason: Not specified
User
So pleased to hear surgery went well and that you are back home Carlos. You certainly have lots of people thinking and caring about you and plenty of advice from the guys who have been through the same experience.
Take care,
Ange x
User
Thanks to all who are looking out for me I very much appreciate all your comments and advice makes a massive difference to know there’s help and support from guys who are further down the road than me.
Many thanks to all.
Carl
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Glad things went well Carl and you are back home. It will be a great relief getting the catheter out. You are experiencing all the typical stages of recovery from this operation, and certainly brings back memories for me. Good thing is that it doesn't last long and you will find as each day and week passes you gain strength and things start to get back to near normal. Remember to get a daily walk in if you can , I found the exercise was extremely important both physically and mentally. I'm sure you are glad is all over.
Best wishes
Keithyboy
User
Hi Carlos,
Looking good, you will find massive changes each day now. (ie effect of major op and drugs being cleaned out etc). Feel free to check my profile. I'm post op +5yrs now and much older than you !
Are you booked in this week for catheter out them ? Plenty of great advice from posters already , basically 'listen to your body'.
All the best Gordon
User
Hi Carlos, It's good to know it's going well. Toilet problems with catheter and then after catheter are common but as long as you don't strain it should be alright. I found sitting down put a strain on the pipe and a bit of blood would make the bag contents go rose. It's worrying at first. Sometimes when you're walking the ball in the bladder can cause blood as well.
I hadn't told anyone of my op and decided to visit the neighbour's wearing my bag. It might not bring a smile to everyone but I was thinking I never thought I'd urinate sitting on their sofa while I'm talking to them. Wondering what I'd say if there was a gurgling or if the bag burst open. Stomach playing up I suppose.
All the best, Peter
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Hi all. I had my catheter and staples out 3 days and what a relief it was to have the catheter gone. So here’s the question I am not dry at night although it’s only a small amount I’m interested to find out what the general thought is on being dry at night ? Am I expecting to much to soon ? I am walking everyday since catheter removal and during the day I seem to leak more getting off the sofa I’m trying to do the PFE but I’m still a bit sore down below which I suppose is normal as it’s only 2 weeks today that I had the surgery. I’m feeling ok in myself, some twinges in my stomach occasionally but on the whole feeling very positive. It’s only the continence issue that causing me to stress out a bit. All comments welcomed ๐๐
Carlos
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Glad to hear catheter is out. ๐Feels good doesn't it?
Re. continence, it might depend a bit on how your internal stitching is. Sometimes the stitching can hold the valve a bit open, but will eventually dissolve away. Are you still taking painkillers? If not, it might be worth taking them so that you can do the pelvic floor exercises more easily?
_____ Two cannibals named Ectomy and Prost, all alone on a Desert island. Prost was the strongest, so Prost ate Ectomy. |
User
Carlos, things are still healing so perhaps expecting a bit too much but good to be positive. Frequently guys say they are dry at night first and a small leakage at night sounds promising. Standing is almost always a reason to leak as you squash the bladder.
Hope all goes well.
Thanks Chris
User
Hi Carlos,
Glad for you that the catheter is out. Don't worry at all about any leakage at night. I leaked at night a bit for at least 6 weeks- probably not helped by a glass or 2 of wine. I'd be dry through the morning then start leaking a bit as the day progresses also or bending over or something. Just relax, don't stress and it will continue to improve I'm sure. It just takes a while for you to heal and for your brain to readjust