Incision & Pre-Op Procedures

Just looking for input/advice based on your experience...

Does it matter if the incision is done horizontally or vertically? It seems most Dr's do it horizontally -is there a specific reason for that?
I have one Dr who would do it vertically -simply for cosmetic reasons...but I don't know if that is "risky" at all? Is there any one out there with a vertical incision?

Pre-Op --Does it matter if the pre-op lab work is done a couple days before OR on the same day? It seems those are the 2 protocols out there...and I'm guessing this may have more to do with scheduling procedures - than anything else.

And finally - I have 1 Dr who would give me "special soap" to use the night & morning before - and 1 who doesn't do the soap...does this matter?

Thank you so much for your time...

6 Comments

Best of luck!

by Bean19 - 2015-01-17 08:01:43

I also have a 45degree incision it goes from close to my armpit towards my neck about an inch long.

I used the soap. It is really easy and it helps guard from infection. Seeing as the surgery goes directly to your heart, anything to help prevent infection is great.

Have a great peaceful nap and you will be great afterward!

pre-op

by Tracey_E - 2015-01-17 08:01:44

I don't think it matters when they do the labs. I've had them done a few days before, I've had them done day of. I think some just like to have it out of the way.

Incision, mine is not horizontal or vertical, it's about 45 degrees. I think vertical is easier to cover with a tank or bathing suit top than horizontal, if that matters to you. I don't think there's any difference in risk.

I've heard of the soap but never used it. Can't hurt! Any extra thing you can do to prevent infection is good, right? Odds of infection are low but any surgery always carries some risk. Did either mention the antibiotic sleeve? One more thing that isn't necessary, but if it's available, why not?

Horizontal

by Grateful Heart - 2015-01-17 11:01:41


My incision is horizontal. My pre-op lab work has always been done a few days in advance. I thought it was in case something comes up in the lab work that the Anaesthesiologist could address beforehand.

Before my implant, I was not given the antiseptic soaps/ wipes to use the night before and morning of surgery. However, I was given it for a lead revision (different hospitals). I liked the idea of using it for an additional precaution for bugs/ infections.

If you are trying to decide between Doctors, I would opt for the Doctor who has the most experience at implants and a good bedside manner. In other words, willing to talk to you and explain what is going on with your condition and device. Trust me, that is very important.

Grateful Heart

Mostly vertical

by MelodyMarch - 2015-01-17 11:01:49

On the chance of TMI, my incision pretty much follows the line of the style of bra I like to wear. My reason was not cosmetic however, as I am a violin/viola player and my EP and I were worried about the wear and tear a traditional horizontal scar would have taken with an instrument on the shoulder. As for risk, it was fine for me. I played a two-hour concert with four 3-hour rehearsals 2 weeks after implant. If it was going to open up, it would have then.

My implant was urgent, so no soap for me, but they used this blue wash all over my chest pre-op that literally took 2 weeks to fade. I looked like a battered Smurf.

Pre-op testing for me was drawn in the hospital when my cardio looked me straight in the eye and said "I have an opening Wednesday, you are not going home until I get a pacemaker in you." That was Monday.

Each EP is different, they all have their routines and quirks, I wouldn't get too caught up in what really are the minor details.

thank you!

by lisabfit - 2015-01-18 09:01:01

Thank you all for your comments...I appreciate learning from your experiences! Thank you!

Vertical

by gabscameronxo - 2015-01-18 10:01:03

I have an S-ICD which is a ICD but is an incision is made on my left side, and the wire only sits on my heart, it doesn't actually go in it, if your getting it horizontal then it just makes it more easier to cover up, especially for girls so they can wear low cut tops and dresses without thier scars being on show, as for the soap, I didn't get it but being a student nurse myself, I know that it is used as an antibacterial to remove bacteria from the skin to make the skin as sterile as possible so no bacteria can get inside your body therefore causing an infection.

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