Yes for the most part it's protocol. He's just telling you what to expect ( potentially ). As with any surgery there are risks involved and he wants to make you aware. The only negative thing I encountered right after surgery was my drainage tube in my neck became infected so had to be a guest @ St. Mary's hospital for another week ( 2 weeks total ). Oh and that J tube in my lower intestine for 10 weeks was no picnic either ( no pun intended).