CATHY-You're probably in pre-op now. Let us know how you are doing when you are recovered enough and can get to a computer.
The shoulder pain is caused by a nerve that is somehow shared with the intestines (I think). I used to know the finer details about how this works but don't remember it well enough to explain it properly. Write this down on your list of questions to take with you when you have your consult with the surgeon. They are usually more than happy to explain everything.