VATS/ thoracic surgery experiences?

[Flynn_Maverick]

Hi everyone, just coming up to my fifth surgery for endometriosis and it will be on the underside of the diaphragm plus the usual pelvic places, both of which I’ve had before so know what to expect (ish!). I’ll also be having thoracic exploration (VATS) for the first time, I have been warned this is pretty horrible by the surgeons involved (thanks guys 😂) but just wondered if anyone has had it and would be kind enough to share experiences so I can mentally prepare? I have been told the chest fluid drain is even worse than the abdominal drain (is that even possible 😳). I’ve opted for just the side the pain is on and not bilateral as recommended by the lead surgeon. Thanks! X

[Lasa]

What are the symptoms for this ?

[Flynn_Maverick in reply to Lasa]

Daily severe stabbing pains and spasms in the rib area which are worse during my period, nerve pain in the shoulders, occasional shortness of breath. In addition to the symptoms caused by the pelvic endo.

[Flynn_Maverick in reply to Flynn_Maverick]

Oh and constant hiccoughing!

[Lasa in reply to Flynn_Maverick]

Did u find u were getting heart palpitations on your period or pelvic pain aswell x

[Lasa]

How do they diagnose it in the chest ?

[BlueTit98]

Hi Flynn,

I’m so sorry you are having to undergo this. I have thoracic endometriosis in my pleura next to my vena cava. Will most probably be undergoing a similar procedure. Please could you share how this went/ how it goes so I can also mentally prepare. I have a toddler at home and am just absolutely terrified about the whole thing.

Thank you! Xx

[StephAlexa]

hello, just wondering how you got on with this and if you’d recommend your surgeon? Really struggling with thoracic endo but have only had it ablated from the diaphragm so looking for a bath specilist. Thanks x