expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Sarah Ducharme, MD

Surgeon

Dr. Sarah Ducharme is a general surgeon practicing in Tucson, AZ. Dr. Ducharme specializes in abdominal contents including the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas and often thyroid glands. General surgeons are able to deal with almost any surgical or critical care emergency, also involving the skin or soft tissue trauma. Dr. Ducharme provides quality surgical service for gravely ill or injured patients and is able to respond quickly due to knowledge of various surgical procedures.
32 years Experience
Dr. Sarah E. Ducharme, MD
  • Tucson, AZ
  • Albion College
  • Accepting new patients

Can I play after inguinal hernias surgery?

You should probably wait 4 weeks to play those sports
Your surgeon should give you post operative instructions and should address any activity restrictions with you

Symptoms following bilateral inguinal hernia surgery?

Some sensations can be normal. You need to make sure you follow up with your surgeon.


Sarah Ducharme

Is rectal prolapse an emergency?

It is not necessarily an emergency. Should attempt to push it back into the rectum with lubricated, groves fingers. If it is too swollen, can put some sugar on it, and it will READ MORE
It is not necessarily an emergency. Should attempt to push it back into the rectum with lubricated, groves fingers. If it is too swollen, can put some sugar on it, and it will shrink the tissue so that it can be reinserted. If it does not reduce, you should seek medical attention. If it does not reduce, you should keep it covered with a moist cloth so that it does not dry out


Sarah Ducharme

Is removing colon polyps dangerous?

Usually, colon polyps are removed at the time of colonoscopy. If they can not be removed during colonoscopy, surgery can be required. You should be referred to a surgeon who should READ MORE
Usually, colon polyps are removed at the time of colonoscopy. If they can not be removed during colonoscopy, surgery can be required. You should be referred to a surgeon who should tell you all about the planned operation - including the risks, benefits, and alternatives. If your surgeon hasn’t had this discussion with you, you need to ask them these questions before the operation.


Sarah Ducharme

Can I sit after inguinal hernia surgery?

Yes
There are no restrictions on sitting, standing or walking after hernia surgery


Sarah Ducharme
seducharme@hotmail.com<mailto:seducharme@hotmail.com>

Should I be worried about general anesthesia?

Not really. General anesthesia is very safe. Your anesthesiologist will talk to you about general anesthesia before surgery and discuss the risks etc.

Diarrhea from surgery?

Have you gone back to your surgeon? Have you been checked for c. Diff colitis?

What size lipoma should be removed?

Lipomas can be removed at any size. The primary reason to remove them is if they are bothersome - due to pain, location, size, etc. When a lipoma is removed, you are essentially READ MORE
Lipomas can be removed at any size. The primary reason to remove them is if they are bothersome - due to pain, location, size, etc. When a lipoma is removed, you are essentially trading a lump for a scar.


How long does appendix surgery take?

Hi usually 30-90 minutes. Depending on severity of disease

Appendix?

Hi,

You should call your surgeon's office to discuss with them.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

Hi, Depends on the hernia. Groin hernias that are not bothersome, generally don’t need to get fixed, but if they stop you from doing activity, hurt, or are very large, then READ MORE
Hi,

Depends on the hernia. Groin hernias that are not bothersome, generally don’t need to get fixed, but if they stop you from doing activity, hurt, or are very large, then they probably should be fixed.

Can hernia mesh cause problems years later?

It can, but it usually does not. We use a lot of mesh in hernia repairs and the vast majority of patients have no issues.

Where do you press to check for appendicitis?

Right lower quadrant. But can also be periumbilical. Also diffuse pain if there is rupture.

Can I eat if I suspect appendicitis?

If suspect appendicitis, should not eat. Should be evaluated. It is mostly surgical in nature, so need to have empty stomach to be as safe as possible for an operation.

What is the fastest way to recover from hernia surgery?

No smoking. Active. After surgery, you'll want to move around - gentle activity.

How are surgical stitches removed?

Just cut and pulled out. Little to no pain at all.

Does it hurt to have a lipoma removed?

Depends on the size and location. Generally, people do well and don't need any pain medication other than over the counter meds after.

Which hernia surgery is best?

You need to discuss with your surgeon - laparoscopic or open approach.

Can I eat spicy food after appendix surgery?

Yes, you certainly can. There are generally no dietary restrictions after appendix operation.