Recovery from surgery

[Moness]

I’ve been on prednisolone for two and a half years and have now tapered down to one mg. and am taking 0 on the odd day hoping slowly to reduce to zero. However, I now have to have abdominal surgery in a couple of weeks and the consultant has said it would be better for my recovery if I was no longer taking steroids as they can impact the healing process. Apart from worrying about the the surgery I’m concerned about how my adrenals will cope so wondered if anyone has had a similar experience and would appreciate any advice.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Well I doubt that 1mg (and not every day to boot) is going to impact recovery that much... many have had operations on higher doses and recovered without problems.

But your anaesthetist does need to be aware that you have been on steroids long term....

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Oh **$!!!!!!!!! I really doubt that ONE mg is going to impede healing post surgery - there are plenty on the forum who have had replacement surgery while on a lot more than that with no problems. If you were on more and it was an emergency they would still operate.

In any case, as a long term steroid patient you should probably comply with Sick Day Rules when having surgery in order to aid recovery. You will need some as an infusion during the operation - make sure the anaesthetist knows pre-op and don't get fobbed off by other staff saying it doesn't matter. It does.

[Moness in reply to PMRpro]

thanks for the words of wisdom. As you say, the dosage is very low so I’ll keep to my plan and not rush to zero.

[SheffieldJane]

The stress of his remark will do you much more harm than your teeny dose of steroid. As PMRPro says, ensure that the anaesthetist knows - they might give you more Pred to support your adrenals, but this won’t interfere with your taper. Good luck with your op! 💐

[Moness in reply to SheffieldJane]

thanks! I’ll make sure the anaesthetist knows

[Chrob]

Had quite major abdominal surgery a couple of years ago , 7/6 mg at the time . No problems regarding recovery .

[Moness in reply to Chrob]

that’s very encouraging thanks and glad you made a good recovery

[piglette]

I am gobsmacked by your surgeon’s remark. I knew that some doctors knew nothing about steroids, but he could use some common sense, 0mg and 1mg are a tiny drop in the ocean. You can tell him so from me!

[Moness in reply to piglette]

Yes, I was a bit surprised by his remark. Thing is I’ve nearly reached zero but don’t want to rush to get there. Thanks everyone for the advice!

[Tapestry1057]

Hi Moness….was interesting to read the replies to your question. I am in exactly the same situation and have the same worries as you! I am due to have a hip replacement on Dec. 15 after a 3 year wait….the day the nurses are supposed to be going on strike!! You couldn’t make it up….consultants retiring, another moving to different area and that’s apart from PMR and Covid? All the balls in the air…yet again!! Anyway, all best wishes and hope all goes well with your op.

[Moness in reply to Tapestry1057]

Thanks Tapestry and I hope your hip replacement takes place and is successful. The nurses aren’t striking in our area so that is something to be thankful for. Good luck for the 15th!