← Return to Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS)
DiscussionMedian Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS)
Digestive Health | Last Active: 6 hours ago | Replies (1229)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Thank you for your posts. I had open MALS procedure January 25/19. Required bypass and graft...."
My incisional pain lasted 6 months it still gets painful to touch at times ( I believe this is nerve damage, nothing I cant handle but it affects the clothing I wear). What helped me with my incisional pain is using a small pillow to splint my incision. I used it when I walked for at least a month maybe two. I used it also in bed for at least 6 months to help support my abdominal muscles. Gas pains... the dreaded gas pains, oh yes they were not fun. You are doing the right thing slow eating, chew food well, small frequent meals. For pain at home I managed with narcotics to be honest I cant even remember the name of the one I was on post op, but I used extra-strength Tylenol for pain. I have to be careful with Advil because I have a vascular disease that affects my kidneys so I can use it just very sparingly. What helped all my symptoms was walking three times a day short distances... even just around the house. I was so happy to be home, my recovery went so much better once I was discharged. Better sleep, better food... and my family made all the difference in the world. I know the recovery is so long!!! Just keep asking questions... it has been about 4 years now since my last surgery but I will try my best to answer your questions. This may sound silly... I did not wear a bra for at least 6 months, I wore a tank top that was loose on my abdomen. Some patients like abdominal binders, you can get them at any drug store. For me they were uncomfortable. My thoughts are with you!! You will get through this, you will start noticing bigger strides of progress at about 3-4 month post op. Hang in there