<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

Thanks to all of you for your reponses to my question about special
needs during/after surgery.  Here is a summary:

"I will be having surgery for a partially torn rotator cuff and
impengment in my right shoulder."

1.  One person had complications with Versed.  Another had problems with
the Dextrose IV.  However, both said those things may not have been
gluten related.

2.  Many of you recommended getting the names of all medications to be
taken orally and call Stokes Pharmacy to verify the gf status. Stokes Rx
(800-754-5222) email - [log in to unmask]

3.  One person mentioned a new drug used as an anti-inflammatory that
the doctors are thrilled with.  It DOES contain gluten but couldn't
remember the name of it.  If anyone knows what this is -- please email
me!

4.  Darvacet (sp?) for pain was gluten free, as is Vioxx for
inflammation. Demeral (generic) is gf for pain.  Percocet and Vicoden
are GF.

5.  three of you said to tell the anesthesiologist that I have celiac
and probably define for him.  You said there were problems with
anesthesia.

6.  Nine of you said anything received by IV tube or hypo does not cross
the intestinal track, so makes no difference.  And anesthesia is not a
problem.

7.  If this is to be an outpatient procedure, have your physician
write any prescriptions ahead of time.  Take those prescriptions to your
pharmacy to see what brands the pharmacy carries.  Have those checked
out for their gluten status.  If you are to be admitted to the hospital
overnight, find out from the physician what he/she is likely to
prescribe and cehck those with the pharmacy.

8.  contact Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) in Seattle, WA for their
Hospital Guide. It is noted as aEUR~a must for persons with CD and DH
anticipating a hospital stay. Includes explicit instructions for
hospital dietitians and pharmacyaEUR(tm). Hospital Staff that have
received this guide highly recommend it, and it has been well received.
The price is $15.00 plus shipping and handling of $4.50 for a total of $19.50

9.  Many of you warned about the food/drink fed to you after surgery.
Take your own crackers and soda as you will need to drink, eat and
urinate before they will let you go home from day surgery.

10.  If staying in the hospital overnight, work with the dietician prior
to surgery.  If possible have food brought in from home to be safe as
the hospital dieticians don't have a clue.