Patricia Shaw, 78, recently ended her years-long struggle with pain and infection when she became a Lakewood Ranch Medical Center patient.
More than 20 years ago, Shaw had a hernia mesh placed under her navel during a surgical procedure at another hospital. She never would have guessed it would lead to a string of complications and surgeries that would go on for two decades.
In March of 2022, Shaw was treated for an infection after the mesh broke apart. When her condition did not improve, she underwent hernia mesh removal surgery at another hospital.
The day following surgery, She went into septic shock. “I heard them say, ‘we’re losing her,’” she recounts. “The next thing I remember was that I woke up with an ileostomy bag and part of my intestines removed.
I was in that hospital for the next month and then had to go through rehabilitation because I couldn’t even walk.”
Fortunately, after two more surgeries and experiencing serious complications, she was referred to Lakewood Ranch Medical Group general surgeon, David Dexter, MD. Following testing, he performed a very complex surgery at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center in April 2024. The surgery was successful, and Shaw had no complications.
BACK TO LIVING
Shaw credits the entire team with providing great care. “The nurses were always there and helped me deal with the pain in the first few days post-op.” I used a walker within 24 hours under their supervision and was able to go home. I had physical therapy and nursing services for one month so I could be monitored between my monthly check-ins with Dr. Dexter,” Shaw explains.
“I had so much confidence in Dr. Dexter, and I respect his surgical skills. He explained everything and made sure I was knowledgeable about my experience,” she says.
Now, after a few months of healing, Shaw has returned to walking, swimming and enjoying the Florida sun. “I’m a pool person,” she laughs.
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