Appendectomy 9/2/09

[mdsmithers]

My 9 yr old son had his appendix removed on Wed 9/2/09 at 10:30pm. The appendix was perforated, so there was some bacteria issues that we are treating with antibiotics. The surgery was performed via a laparoscopic approach, 2 small incisions and the appendix removed via the belly button. As of today my son hasn't really eaten anything, he only walked down the hall once, under a lot of pain, he'll be in the hospital until he can eat. So here's my issue, our trip begins 9/18/09, my wife's birthday is 9/19/09, her 40th, so that's what we were celebrating. Recovery seems very slow at this point, should I be thinking about postponing this trip? I'm struggling with how it's going to be possible for him to have the strength to be standing and walking all day at this point. Do we rent a wheelchair? Can the trip be salvaged?

 

[Schmeck]

I'd postpone the trip, as even if you have him use a wheelchair, he's not going to be able to go on a lot of the more active attractions. Well, he could go on them, but he could get seriously hurt (a lap bar restraint across a healing incision site is not a good thing).

I'd ask his surgeon when he'd be healed enough to go. I had my gallbladder taken out last month, and although I know kids heal faster than adults, I need another 2-3 weeks to feel well enough to go on BTMRR and EE.

 

[suz_cute]

I totally agree with Schmeck, it would be in your best interest, and sons, to postpone the trip! I too had a laparoscopic procedure done, and there would've been NO way I would've been able to keep up stamina-wise at WDW just a few weeks post-op. As a medical professional, I would have to agree again with Schmeck about injuring or bruising an incision site. You certainly don't need any complications on your vacation, and you want your family to have the best time possible! I know it might be disappointing to have to postpone a trip that was celebrating a special occasion, but your sons health and healing process is way more important. I wish him a very speedy recovery!!

 

[mdsmithers]

Update 9/13/09, he went to school last week Thursday and Friday, one of the incisions has already lost it's durabond, the other is close to coming off. That's what they used in place of stitches. He rode his bike yesterday and didn't want to stop, I made him come inside. He's fairly active at this point, so I'm thinking we are going to go. I appreciate you guys weighing in on this one, it's amazing how quickly kids bounce back from this kind of stuff.

 

[bookwormde]

Glad to hear he is doing well and the trip may be a go.

bookwormde