ET and surgery

[Lions3]

Hi all, I was diagnosed earlier this year & currently on low dose aspirin. I’ve just also found out that I have to have major surgery later this year for an unrelated issue. Im wondering if anyone with ET has had surgery and how were things managed pre/post surgery to prevent clot/bleed . Thanks in advance

[Hidden]

Hi, I had a three hour operation with no problems at all with my ET. I was given a clexane injection, not sure if it was 20 or 40mgs in my butt and that was it. Post op I wore compression stockings for about 6 weeks. Best wishes Lyn ps I think I stopped taking my aspirin a few days before as well.

[Kari1961]

I had surgery 18 months ago - I had my parathyroid gland removed. I also have PV. I was just on aspirin at the time and didn't stop taking it prior to the surgery, there were no post op complications relating to bleeding or clotting.

[Lifam]

Hi, I have no surgery done since diagnosed with ET. But I do know that prior to surgery you need to inform the surgeon that you've been on blood thinner, because patients would be asked to stop taking blood thinners prior to most of surgeries. All the best.

[Ebot]

Hi there

It’s worth having a conversation with your haematologist about this.

If your platelet count is relatively low and you are just on aspirin then probably only minor precautions are required. You’ll need to come off the aspirin in advance of the surgery.

My experience some years back when my platelet count was very high and I needed urgent surgery was that the procedure was very carefully managed - and limited. Certainly my haematologist (Prof Harrison) issued very clear directions to my surgeon!! And I was treated as high risk even though the procedure was straightforward. Frustratingly the surgeon was restricted to carrying out the most basic of investigative procedures and couldn’t do everything she was intending to in order to ensure I was under anaesthetic for the briefest of times. Word of caution though - most of the nurses etc I met had never heard of ET etc so go prepared to educate!!!

[Snagglepus]

Had two procedures last year and had to stop taking Clopidogrel for 5 days before. Was told by my Haematologist. Started it again the day after.

[23938112]

I had a cancerous tumour removed from the top of my head 2 weeks ago. Even after concerns from my haematologist all went ok. No clots or excessive bleeding. Just had to stop blood thinners for a few days. I hope all goes well for you too.

David.

[Chaz1]

Hubby has ET/PV jak2+ last year he had his gall bladder out. They checked his blood a couple of weeks earlier to make sure ok. His surgeon spoke with Haemo. Stayed on aspirin right up to night begore. Anaesthetist was very knowledgeable & there was 2 present in theatre. He came out looking better than he went in - was like his old self. Compression stockings for a couple of days, gentle walking around & no need for clotting injections at home. I did double check as was initially told beforehand that he would need but no was fine. Good luck xx

[Devilgirl]

Hi I'm also ET JAK2 + & had surgery last summer for something totally unconnected. Was on aspirin only at the time & took it right up to the day of surgery. Was put on clexane for 2 weeks after. I came through fine.

The consultant kept in close contact with my haematologist from well before the surgery & right through to post op. It is important that you speak to your consultant & have them liaise with you haematologist.