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What is the recovery like following septal myectomy?

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) | Last Active: Apr 25 1:44pm | Replies (141)
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@pam753

Thanks, Debra, both your advice and prayers are much appreciated. I have a good recliner that accommodates my long legs, but its a manual so will probably need my hubby to help me lift the footrest portion. I also have a good wedge pillow so using that I’m hoping to be able to sleep in the bed fairly soon after getting home. I live in NW Iowa and even with the thaw we have had in recent days I dress in layers to stay cozy— camisole, mock turtle neck, and a cardigan, flannel shirt or fleece quarter zip. I have knit pull-on pants too, but if I can’t reach around at all to my backside, I don’t think I can dress myself; am I correct about that? 🤪

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Replies to "Thanks, Debra, both your advice and prayers are much appreciated. I have a good recliner that..."
Debra, Volunteer Mentor | @karukgirl | Feb 2 11:11am

It's pretty difficult to use your arms for the first week or two. After that you may notice that "Hey! I just moved my arms further back and it didn't even hurt!"
The first few days, in my experience, you can't reach back behind you for anything. Your world is all in front of you, not heavy, and small movements.
Iowa? Brrrr! I'm in far Northern California, we don't know cold here! My best guess would be things you can slip gently over your head, or easily pull on, or step into. But those first few weeks go by fast, and it's only a temporary situation. Thank goodness!! 🙂
Where is your surgery being performed? Is it close to home?

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