I'm happy to report that the B-12 deficiency that I talked about in the last post might be the answer to my hand problem. The latest news is a trip to visit a neurologist. I really like him and have had instant relief--though I still have problems. Dr. Mir says it would take up to six months to completely recover.
Bottom-line: Dr. Mir believes the hand problem is related to positioning during the long PMP surgery. He said that open-heart patients have hand problems like this because of rib retraction and the way the retraction puts pressure on collar bones and the nerves that run to the hands. Then, in my case, the additional B-12 deficiency which is probably related to removal of ileum (the part of the small intestine that absorbs B-12--Carrie discovered this!) exacerbates the problem. He also mentioned that stress will make it even worse! (And I haven't been stressed at all!)
After a nerve conductivity test which indicated that my right hand might have a little carpel tunnel, Dr. Mir prescribed B-12 injections and Nerontin or Gabapentin, which is used to treat neuropathic pain. The amazing thing is I had some relief almost instantly. Hands are so much better. Mike said I'm a different person. And I thought I was pretty awesome already!
Only thing that worries me about this treatment is that Gabapentin causes weight gain--just what I don't need!
