This afternoon was my final clearance before the surgery. I got to go to the Pulmonary doctor to make sure my lungs are clear and have the capacity to withstand the anesthesia. I had brought my chest x-ray results so that made them happy.
They did a spirometer test which is to test lung function and capacity. I had to blow in a machine connected to a computer which showed lit candles. I had to take deep breaths and try to blow all the candles out. I had 3 tries, and each try I had ONE damn candle left. I'm so competitive; it pissed me off.
BUT the results came back normal, and the doctor reviewed them with me. He said I have above-average capacity for my age. This surprises me because I did smoke cigarettes in college, and I enjoy partaking in a little herbal fun. But apparently my lungs are great.
So, I have a great heart and great lungs. Woohoo!
The doctor was wonderful, he spent a lot of time talking to me. Family history, diet history, pretty much every little thing about me. He listened to me breathe to confirm my lungs are clear (as the x-ray showed), and told me I have an especially large esophagus, which would be good for intubation of the tube...which of course sent EJ and I into immature giggles.
Overall, it was a good experience. He called me a "veritable windbag" due to the large lung capacity. He made me laugh, I really enjoyed him.
All of my clearances are now done. Just gotta hope the doctors send their approvals to the surgeon before Tuesday. I'll have to call a lot and make sure it all gets in...
The next step: The hospital will call me in for a meeting with the nurses to discuss what will happen when I arrive, and details about what to bring, etc. It's getting close!
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