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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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On And Off Appetite, Numbness In Left Hand , Longer Recovery Time After Having Quadruple By Pass. Have Pacemaker Fitted. Help

Hi , I had a quadruple by-pass in May this year , but my recovery seems to be taking far longer than I was told , also my appetite comes and goes , also a pacemaker was fitted 2 weeks after the surgery. My left hand for the best part seems rather numb , I`m told the use will return , but it is now 4 months and it still is very troublesome , especially when washing my hands .
posted on Wed, 18 Sep 2013
Twitter Fri, 20 Sep 2013 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 20 Sep 2013 Last reviewed on
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Cardiologist,  's  Response
Dear patient,

Recovery after such a big surgery can indeed take months. Sometimes, nerves are damaged as part of the surgery and can lead to issues with numbness as you mention; specific physical therapy (hand therapy) can provide significant help, other patients try accupuncture with good results.

I would recommend specific physical therapy to expedite recovery.

Yours truly,


Dr Brenes-Salazar MD
Cardiology
Mayo Clinic MN
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Cardiologist,  Dr. Anantharamakrishnan's  Response
Hi friend,
Welcome to Health Care Magic

Injury or irritation of the nerve may be responsible. Incidental causes like cervical spondylosis and nerve root compression are common.
Neurologic consultation, MRI neck, Electromyograohy and Nerve conduction studies can help
The treating doctor may suggest them depending on need, based on his assessment of the situation.
Be in touch with your doctor - it is a question of time and you will be well.

Take care     
Wishing all well
God bless
Good luck
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On And Off Appetite, Numbness In Left Hand , Longer Recovery Time After Having Quadruple By Pass. Have Pacemaker Fitted. Help

Dear patient, Recovery after such a big surgery can indeed take months. Sometimes, nerves are damaged as part of the surgery and can lead to issues with numbness as you mention; specific physical therapy (hand therapy) can provide significant help, other patients try accupuncture with good results. I would recommend specific physical therapy to expedite recovery. Yours truly, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Cardiology Mayo Clinic MN