Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Abdominal wall reconstruction is a complex surgery that corrects abdominal weaknesses caused by recurring hernias or open wounds. This procedure requires moving abdominal tissues, redistributing the abdominal muscles. This reinforces the midline. In the procedure, the muscle structure is restored as close to the midline as possible.
A hospital stay of one-three days is required after abdominal wall reconstruction. Rarely, one night’s stay in the intensive care unit may be required for patients who have bad heart or lung disease. Patients typically spend the rest of the day of surgery in bed, but by the next day you will be out of bed and moving around. Pain can vary from moderate to severe, depending on the complexity of the surgery. During the first few days, patients receive intravenous pain medication. For some patients, an epidural catheter can be placed at the time of surgery, offering excellent pain relief in the early postoperative period. Once patients begin drinking and eating, oral pain medication is administered. Most people’s pain is adequately controlled with oral medication within a few days. Dr. Mitchell will do everything possible to minimize pain and maximize results.
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In September 2008 I was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time in my life. Because of treatment I had received 23 years prior, I chose to undergo a double mastectomy with reconstruction. I did some research and visited a couple of surgeons in Lincoln; I actually made an appointment for surgery with one of them. I was also referred to Dr. Cassidy Mitchell. After speaking to him on the phone and meeting with him, I chose to change doctors and have Dr. Mitchell help me with this challenge. Dr. Mitchell was new to Lincoln then, but I felt very confident about how he was approaching my surgery and about his compassion towards me as a woman and patient facing a very difficult surgery. I have never regretted that decision. I am very happy with the results, but most of all, Dr. Mitchell approached the choices, surgery, recovery and reconstruction in a way that made me feel comforted, confident and as though I was in charge. That was important to me at a time when women often feel like their lives have gone completely out of control. I highly recommend him as a surgeon. His work is impeccable. I also have to say my general surgeon, Dr. Carolyn Cody, and the nursing staff at Bryan West Campus was also incredibly supportive. What a team. I am blessed. I’m cancer free, making music with my husband, and moving on with life. Thanks to all of you at Bryan. Thanks, Dr. Mitchell for helping me, for sharing your talent, and treating me with kindness. I’ll never forget it.
*Actual patient. Results may vary."
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