Hi all , I’m two weeks into a recovery after a robotic assisted partial nephrectomy on my right kidney . First off let me say I’m so grateful for the quality of NHS care and treatment I’ve received at my local Trust and subsequently at a National centre , just convinces me further how we need to fight for our NHS.
I was operated first thing on a Wednesday and discharged 2 days later on Friday as all had gone well - 2 out of 3 concerning growths removed , 5 portal points on my tummy . Drain removed morning after surgery as was catheter . Don’t panic if you don’t get impulses from your bladder straight away , it took till midnight till mine started to “ wake up”. Apparently it’s not unusual to have it reinserted and then removed later . As soon as drain out I got up and sat in a chair and took a walk every 1-2 hours , whilst sitting or lying down I did foot/ calf stretches . Did feel tired and pain relief meant my appetite was off . I had anti emetics but to be honest I only felt better after I was physically sick , sometimes I think Our bodies just need to get rid of crap . First week home took th8ngs slowly but kept moving every couple of hours and had 2 short walks outside daily. Now end of week 2 my energy levels are returning to a recognisable level , stitches starting to dissolve and glue nearly all gone . I found as a woman forget the bra for a while , wearing a cotton vest/ T shirt was MUCH more comfortable . First week virtually no cloth8ng that puts pressure on the portal points , week two trousers bearable . You have to shower not bathe and I found the warm shower soothing even if you can’t lather up the tummy area . I sleep on my left so I was fine but don’t worry your body seems to automatically protect the healing area . No lifting and if you feel tired listen to your body and rest . I’ll find out soon if the margins are clear - the surgeon was pretty clear he thought the histopathology results would be favourable . Either way the thought of surgery was much worse than the actual experience . Thanks to all you lovely people who reassured me .
