No. I didn't have any of that problem. When I was told I needed to have this done I panicked right away. I used to be a buyer in a hospital in California. I bought for all the cardiac departments and sent instruments out for repair. Once I was sent a sternum saw for repair and just the look of it freaked me out so when I was told I needed this surgery the first thing I thought of was that saw.

Fortunately for me, a procedure was developed since then where they go up through the groin on both sides. And, since it is no longer an experimental procedure an overnight stay is all that is needed if there are no complications, which I didn't have.

It was bad enough though, as I had to lie on my back for 5 hours after the procedure to make sure the groin area was sealed, and I wouldn't bleed when sitting up. I was just very weak and tired for almost an entire week. I'm much better now but still afraid to lift anything heavier than 10 lbs. That was my restriction and not to drive.

By the time Alicia leaves I'm sure I'll be back to normal. Just old.