Surgery in older adults

E

elusivebutterfly

New Member
I am 70, new to this group, and facing cervical spine surgery in a week. I am terrified of complications. Any suggestions/thoughts from those of you who have had any type of surgery when you were older. I'm particularly worried about anesthesia. Thank you.
 

Hi elusive butterfly and welcome to the forum. I haven't had any surgeries but I hope everything goes well for you.
 

I have had four joint replacement since late 2015. Every one has been successful and I have healed well but every time I know that something could go wrong. For that reason I only front up for surgery where the benefits are likely to greatly outweigh the risk.

Before each operation I calm myself with prayer. I recall all of the good things in my long life (I am 74 yo) and give thanks, then I hand my self over to my maker and the surgical team.

Try to quell your fears because for the most part they are completely unfounded.
This quotation may help. Read it every day until your operation and draw strength from it.

“I must not fear.
Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.

I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.

Where the fear has gone there will be nothing.
Only I will remain.”

Frank Herbert, Dune.
Click to expand...
 
Warrigal, thank you for the encouragement. I need a right hip replacement. It was scheduled for Dec. but then the issue came up with my spine so hip is on hold. I do agree, that we must hand it over to God. I love your quotation.
 
I'm scheduled for surgery on my lumbar spine; fusion with graft. I believe my expectations are realistic - I'll be happy with a 50% reduction in pain, though the intake nurse told me most of his patients report 80% to 90% pain reduction - and I feel optimistic in general. That's half the battle already won.
 
If there was concern with the medical folks concerning anesthesia and your age, it would of been discussed with you. I understand your concerns, but I’m sure you’ll be fine. My husband (71) as had 3 surgeries since August. Good luck.
 
Welcome EB, glad your here with us, and keep us posted on how things go. Lot's of nice folks here to talk to about these things. I have had just one, minor surgery since I got into my 60s and it went fine.
 

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