Bowel resection

Definition

Bowel resection is a surgical procedure in which a diseased part of the large intestine is removed. The procedure is also known as colectomy, colon removal, colon resection, or resection of part of the large intestine.

Purpose

The large bowel, also called the large intestine, is a part of the digestive system. It runs from the small bowel (small intestine) to the rectum, which receives waste material from the small bowel. Its major function is to store waste and to absorb water from waste material. It consists of the following sections, any of which may become diseased:

Colon. The colon averages some 60 in (150 cm) in length. It is divided into four segments: the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon. There are two bends (flexures) in the colon. The hepatic flexure is where the ascending colon joins the transverse colon. The splenic flexure is where the transverse colon merges into the descending colon.
Cecum. This is the first portion of the large bowel that is joined to the small bowel. The appendix lies at the lowest portion of the cecum.
Ascending colon. This segment is about 8 in (20 cm) in length, and it extends upwards from the cecum to the hepatic flexure near the liver.
Transverse colon. This segment is usually more than 18 in (46 cm) in length and extends across the upper abdomen to the splenic flexure.
Descending colon. This segment is usually less than 12 in (30 cm) long and extends from the splenic flexure downwards to the start of the pelvis.
Sigmoid colon. An S-shaped segment that measures about 18 in (46 cm); it extends from the descending colon to the rectum.

The wall of the colon is composed of four layers:

Mucosa. This single layer of cell lining is flat and regenerates itself every three to eight days. Small glands lie beneath the surface.
Submucosa. The area between the mucosa and circular muscle layer that is separated from the mucosa by a thin layer of muscle, the muscularis mucosa.
Muscularis propria. The inner circular and outer longitudinal muscle layers.
Serosa. The outer, single-cell, thick covering of the bowel. It is similar to the peritoneum, the layer of cells that lines the abdomen.

The large intestine is also responsible for bacterial production and absorption of vitamins. Resection of a portion of the large intestine (or of the entire organ) may become necessary when it becomes diseased. The exact

To remove a portion of the colon, or large intestine, and incision is made in the abdomen to expose the area (A). Tissues and muscles connecting the colon to surrounding organs are severed (B). The area to be removed is clamped and severed (C). The remaining portions of the bowel, the ileum (small intestine) and transverse colon, are connected with sutures (D). Muscles and tissues are repaired (E). (

Illustration by GGS Inc.

)

reasons for large bowel resection in any given patient may be complex and are always carefully evaluated by the treating physician or team. The procedure is usually performed to treat the following disorders or diseases of the large intestine:

Cancer. Colon cancer is the second most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States. Colon and rectum cancers, which are usually referred to as colorectal cancer, grow on the lining of the large intestine. Bowel resection may be indicated to remove the cancer.
Diverticulitis. This condition is characterized by the inflammation of a diverticulum, especially of diverticula occurring in the colon, which may undergo perforation with abscess formation. The condition may be relieved by resecting the affected bowel section.
Intestinal obstruction. This condition involves a partial or complete blockage of the bowel that results in the failure of the intestinal contents to pass through. It is usually treated by decompressing the intestine with suction, using a nasogastric tube inserted into the stomach or intestine. In cases where decompression does not relieve the symptoms, or if tissue death is suspected, bowel resection may be considered.
Ulcerative colitis. This condition is characterized by chronic inflammation of the large intestine and rectum resulting in bloody diarrhea. Surgery may be indicated when medical therapy does not improve the condition. Removal of the colon is curative and also removes the risk of colon cancer. About 25–40% of ulcerative colitis patients must eventually have their colons removed because of massive bleeding, severe illness, rupture of the colon, or risk of cancer.
Traumatic injuries. Accidents may result in bowel injuries that require resection.
Pre-cancerous polyps. A colorectal polyp is a growth that projects from the lining of the colon. Polyps of the colon are usually benign and produce no symptoms, but they may cause rectal bleeding and develop into malignancies over time. When polyps have a high chance of becoming cancerous, bowel resection may be indicated.
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). This is a hereditary condition caused by a faulty gene. Most people discover that they have it at a young age. People with FAP grow many polyps in the bowel. These are mostly benign, but because there are so many, it is really only a question of time before one becomes cancerous. Since people with FAP have a very high risk of developing bowel cancer, bowel resection is thus often indicated.
Hirschsprung's disease (HD). This condition usually occurs in children. It causes constipation, meaning that bowel movements are difficult. Some children with HD cannot have bowel movements at all; the stool creates a blockage in the intestine. If HD is not treated, stool can fill up the large intestine and cause serious problems such as infection, bursting of the colon, and even death.

Description

Bowel resection can be performed using an open surgical approach (colectomy) or laparoscopically.

Colectomy

Following adequate bowel preparation, the patient is placed under general anesthesia, which ensures that the patient is deep asleep and pain free during surgery. Because the effects of gravity to displace tissues and organs away from the site of operation are important, patients are carefully positioned, padded, and strapped to the operating table to prevent movement as the patient is tilted to an extreme degree. The surgeon starts the procedure by making a lower midline incision in the abdomen or, alternatively, he may prefer to perform a lateral lower transverse incision instead. He proceeds with the removal of the diseased portion of the large intestine, and then sutures or staples the two healthy ends back together before closing the incision. The amount of bowel removed can vary considerably, depending on the reasons for the operation. When possible, the procedure is performed to maintain the continuity of the bowel so as to preserve normal passage of stool. If the bowel has to be relieved of its normal digestive work while it heals, a temporary opening of the colon onto the skin of abdominal wall, called a colostomy , may be created. In this procedure, the end of the colon is passed through the abdominal wall and the edges are sutured to the skin. A removable bag is attached around the colostomy site so that stool may pass into the bag, which can be emptied several times during the day. Most colostomies are temporary and can be closed with another operation at a later date. However, if a large portion of the intestine is removed, or if the distal end of the colon is too diseased to reconnect to the proximal intestine, the colostomy is permanent.

Laparoscopic bowel resection

The benefits of laparoscopic bowel resection when compared to open colectomies include reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization periods, and a faster return to normal activities. The procedure is also minimally invasive. When performing a laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon makes three to four small incisions in the abdomen or in the umbilicus (belly button). He inserts specialized surgical instruments , including a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope, in an incision. The abdomen is then filled with gas, usually carbon dioxide, to help the surgeon view the abdominal cavity. A camera is inserted through one of the tubes and displays images on a monitor located near the operating table to guide the surgeon as he works. Once an adequate view of the operative field is obtained, the actual dissection of the colon can start. Following the procedure, the small incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.

All colon surgery involves only three maneuvers that may vary in complexity depending on the region of the bowel and the nature of the disease. These three maneuvers are:

retraction of the colon
division of the attachments to the colon
dissection of the mesentery

In a typical procedure, after retracting the colon, the surgeon proceeds to divide the attachments to the liver and the small bowel. Once the mesenteric vessels have been dissected and divided, the colon is divided with special stapling devices that close off the bowel while at the same time cutting between the staple lines. Alternatively, a laparoscopically assisted procedure may be selected, in which a small abdominal wall incision is made at this point to bring the bowel outside of the abdomen, allowing open bowel resection and reconnection using standard instruments. This technique is popular with many surgeons because an incision must be made to remove the bowel specimen from the abdomen, which allows the most time-consuming and risky parts of the procedure (from an infection point of view) to be done outside the body with better control of the colon.

Diagnosis/Preparation

Key elements of the physical examination before surgery focus on a thorough examination of the abdomen, groin, and rectum. Other common diagnostic tools used to evaluate medical conditions that may require bowel resection include imaging tests such as gastrointestinal barium series, angiography , computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and endoscopy.

As with any surgery, the patient is required to sign a consent form. Details of the procedure are discussed with the patient, including goals, technique, and risks. Blood and urine tests, along with various imaging tests and an electrocardiogram (EKG), may be ordered. To prepare for the procedure, the patient is asked to completely clean out the bowel. This is a crucial step if the bowel is to be opened safely within the peritoneal cavity, or even manipulated safely through small incisions. To empty and cleanse the bowel, the patient is usually placed on a low-residue diet for several days prior to surgery. A liquid diet may be ordered for at least the day before surgery, with nothing taken by mouth after midnight. A series of enemas and/or oral preparations (GoLytely or Colyte) may be ordered to empty the bowel of stool. Preoperative bowel preparation involving mechanical cleansing and administration of intravenous antibiotics immediately before surgery is the standard practice. The patient may also be given a prescription for oral antibiotics (neomycin, erythromycin, or kanamycin sulfate) the day before surgery to decrease bacteria in the intestine and to help prevent post-operative infection. A nasogastric tube is inserted through the nose into the stomach during surgery and may be left in place for 24–48 hours after surgery. This removes the gastric secretions and prevents nausea and vomiting. A urinary catheter (a thin tube inserted into the bladder) may be inserted to keep the bladder empty during surgery, giving more space in the surgical field and decreasing chances of accidental injury.

Aftercare

Postoperative care for the patient who has undergone a bowel resection, as with those who have had any major surgery, involves monitoring of blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and temperature. Breathing tends to be shallow because of the effect of anesthesia and the patient's reluctance to breathe deeply and experience pain that is caused by the abdominal incision. The patient is instructed how to support the operative site during deep breathing and coughing, and is given pain medication as necessary. Fluid intake and output is measured, and the operative site is observed for color and amount of wound drainage. The nasogastric tube will remain in place, attached to low intermittent suction until bowel activity resumes. Fluids and electrolytes are infused intravenously until the patient's diet can gradually be resumed, beginning with liquids and advancing to a regular diet as tolerated. The patient is generally out of bed approximately eight to 24 hours after surgery. Most patients will stay in the hospital for five to seven days, although laparoscopic surgery can reduce that stay to two to three days. Postoperative weight loss follows almost all bowel resections. Weight and strength are slowly regained over a period of months. Complete recovery from surgery may take two months. Laparoscopic surgery can reduce this time to one to two weeks.

The treating physician should be informed of any of the following problems after surgery:

increased pain, swelling, redness, drainage, or bleeding in the surgical area
headache, muscle aches, dizziness, or fever
increased abdominal pain or swelling, constipation, nausea or vomiting, rectal bleeding, or black, tarry stools

Risks

Potential complications of bowel resection surgery include:

excessive bleeding
surgical wound infection
incisional hernia (an organ projecting through the surrounding muscle wall, it occurs through the surgical scar)
thrombophlebitis (inflammation and blood clot to veins in the legs)
narrowing of the opening (stoma)
pneumonia
pulmonary embolism (blood clot or air bubble in the lung blood supply)
reaction to medication
breathing problems
obstruction of the intestine from scar tissue

Normal results

Complete healing is expected without complications after bowel resection, but the period of time required for recovery from the surgery varies depending on the initial condition that required the procedure, the patient's overall health status prior to surgery, and the length of bowel removed.

Morbidity and mortality rates

Prognosis for bowel resection depends on the seriousness of the disease. For example, primary treatment for colorectal cancer consists of wide surgical resection of the colon cancer and lymphatic drainage after the bowel is prepared. The choice of operation for rectal cancer depends on the tumor's distance from the anus and gross extent; overall surgical cure is possible in 70% of these patients. In the case of ulcerative colitis patients, the colitis is cured by bowel resection and most people go on to live normal, active lives. As for Hirschsprung's disease patients, approximately 70–85% eventually achieve excellent results after surgery, with normal bowel habits and infrequent constipation.

Alternatives

Alternatives to bowel resection depend on the specific medical condition being treated. For most conditions where bowel resection is advised, the only alternative is medical treatment with drugs. In cases of cancer of the bowel, drug treatment alone will not cure the disease. Occasionally, it is possible to remove a rectal cancer from within the back passage without major surgery, but this only applies to very special cases. As for other conditions such as mild or moderate ulcerative colitis, drug therapy may represent an alternative to surgery; a combination of the drugs sulfonamide, sulfapyridine, and salicylate may help control inflammation. Similarly, most acute cases of diverticulitis are first treated with antibiotics and a liquid diet.

See also Laparoscopy ; Small bowel resection .

Resources

books

Corman, M. L. Colon and Rectal Surgery. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1998.

Hampton, Beverly, and Ruth Bryant. Ostomies and Continent Diversions. St. Louis: Mosby Inc., 1992.

Michelassi, F., and J. W. Milsom, eds. Operative Strategies in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. New York: Springer Verlag, 1999.

Peppercorn, Mark, ed. Therapy of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: New Medical and Surgical Approaches. New York: Marcel Dekker, 1989.

periodicals

Alves, A., Y. Panis, D. Trancart, J. Regimbeau, M. Pocard, and P. Valleur. "Factors Associated with Clinically Significant Anastomotic Leakage after Large Bowel Resection: Multivariate Analysis of 707 Patients." World Journal of Surgery 26 (April 2002): 499–502.

Miller, J., and A. Proietto. "The Place of Bowel Resection in Initial Debulking Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer." Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology 42 (November 2002): 535–537.

Sukhotnik, I., A. S. Gork, M. Chen, R. Drongowski, A. G. Coran, and C. M. Harmon. "Effect of Low Fat Diet on Lipid Absorption and Fatty-acid Transport following Bowel Resection." Pediatric Surgery International 17 (May 2001): 259–264.

Tabet, J., D. Hong, C. W. Kim, J. Wong, R. Goodacre, and M. Anvari. "Laparoscopic versus Open Bowel Resection for Crohn's Disease." Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology 15 (April 2001): 237–242.

Taylor, C., and C. Norton. "Information Booklets for Patients with Major Bowel Resection." British Journal of Nursing 19 (June–July 2000): 785–791.

organizations

American Board of Colorectal Surgeons (ABCRS). 20600 Eureka Rd., Ste. 600, Taylor, MI 48180. (734) 282-9400. http://www.abcrs.org .

The American Society of Colorectal Surgeons (ASCRS). 85 West Algonquin, Suite 550, Arlington Heights, IL 60005. (847) 290 9184. http://www.fascrs.org .

United Ostomy Association, Inc. (UOA). 19772 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92612-2405. (800) 826-0826. http://www.uoa.org .

other

"Bowel Resection." Patient & Family Education / NYU Medical Center. http://www.nmh.org/patient_ed_pdfs/pt_ed_bowel_resection_discharge.pdf. .

"Bowel Resection with Colostomy." Health Care Corporation of St. John's. http://www.hccsj.nf.ca/2002/Med_Services/Surgery/Procedures/bowel_resec_col.asp .

"Colorectal Cancer." ASCRS Homepage. http://www.fascrs.org .

Kathleen D. Wright, RN Monique Laberge, PhD

WHO PERFORMS THE PROCEDURE AND WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?

Bowel resection surgery is performed by a colorectal surgeon, who is a medical doctor fully trained in general surgery and certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) as well as by the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS). The surgeon must pass the American Board of Surgery Certifying Examination and complete an approved colorectal training program. The surgeon is then eligible to take the qualifying examination in colorectal surgery after completing training. There is also a certifying examination that is taken after passing the qualifying examination. The surgeon is required to re-certify in surgery in order to re-certify in colon and rectal surgery (every 10 years).

Bowel resection surgery is a major operation performed in a hospital setting. The cost of the surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are sicker or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

What alternatives to bowel resection might be indicated in my case?
Am I a candidate for bowel resection?
How many patients with my specific condition have you treated?
How long will it take to recover from surgery?
What do I need to do before surgery?
What happens on the day of surgery?
What type of anesthesia will be used?
What happens during surgery, and how is the surgery performed?

Also read article about Bowel Resection from Wikipedia

User Contributions:

crystal

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thank you for your article. i am a nursing student with a patient having colon cancer resection surgery and i apperciate the insight. i will continue to use your site, and will refer it to other students.

mick

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as I have just (yesterday) 20.04.06 been advised that I need a sigmoid colon resection due to severe diverticulitis a polep was found, and scarring etc. A not very nice colonoscopy was performed. It hurts, but now at least I know its not cancer. I would like to know however, what period of time I will have to ENDURE,,, yes that worried,, a bag.? What are the chances of me not needing one at all... Cut - rejoin and low residue diet to ease the newly joined bowel back into use ?.

Good site though and you have answered some of my fears and questions.
I am 58 yrs and fit.

Sharon

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Your article was very informative! My doctor is doing a Transverse Bowel Resection surgery on me. He will be cutting into my stomach instead of the laproscope surgery. Has anyone out there gone through this specific surgery? Also, I did not think to ask him why not the laproscope, since it is a shorter recovery. Thanks

Afrah

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I had a boyfriend which I known him almost 4 monthes. He tald me that he had surgery for bowel resection 9 monthes ago. He taled me that he we can't have baby if we are marryed becoth of his surgery. Can this surgery has this kind of risk? Pleas email me becouse I wan't to give him the ansewr and support him in every way i can.
Regareds,
Afrah

Michael

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I had an injury 11 years ago that required an emergency bowel resection of the ascending colon. From what I understand the entire ascending colon was removed, the doctor told me that he removed approx. 12" and I got a free appendectomy out of the deal, my problem is this; I haven't had a solid stool in 11 years. Is this normal?

Jayson

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I had a bowel resection and lived with an ileostomy for 5 months for the resection to heal. I had the stoma reversed 9 weeks ago (Thank God) and I cannot go through a day without immodium for the diahrrea and gas. Is there any bright light at the end of the tunnel for the diahrrea?

Karen Brandley

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I had sigmoid resection 3/21/08 10 inches removed with abscess involvement from diverticulitis too many to count. They also removed an ovary at the same time with laproscopy. When will normal bowel function start? I have frequent urges to go to the bathroom with little void. I think I have delveloped hemroids also.

Jackie

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This article was very informative. I am a Nurse and my dad was diagnosed with sigmoid colon cancer a few days ago. He is undergoing surgery for a colectomy this friday. I am nervous, scared and very apprehensive but I believe the surgeon we have chosen is very skilled in what he does. The surgeon said he will take several lymph nodes during the surgery to see if the cancer has spread. If the polyp hasn't invaded the muscle layer of the colon what are the chances that it hasn't spread???

angela

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my daugter had 32 cm of her lower intestine taken out when dhe was 1 month old had to wear an ostomy bag she got it reversed about 2 months after that and has had bad diahrrea since is there anything that can be done!!

Laurie Ruggles

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I AM GOING IN FOR A SIGMOID COLON RESECTION.MY DR. HAS ASSURED ME THAT THERE WILL BE NO BAG THAT I WILL HAVE TO WEAR. BECAUSE OF
SEVERE DIVERTICULOS AND CONSTANT PAIN, I AM HAVING THE SURGERY ON THE 2ND OF JANUARY.HE TOLD ME NOT TO WALK UP ANY STAIRS, BUT TO GET TO MY BEDROOM I HAVE TO.I AM NOT EATING ANY BEEF AT ALL
ONLY CHICKEN, FISH AND TURKEY AND PEABUTTER SANDWICHES. I AM
TRYING TO RID MY BODY OF ANYTHING THAT CAN CAUSE INFECTION.
I HAVE TO STAY IN FOR 6 DAYS WITH THE FIRST THREE DAYS NOTHING TO EAT OR DRINK.WILL THEY ALSO GIVE ME A MORPHINE PUMP OR HOW DO I
HANDLE THE PAIN, HE IS JUST GOING TO DO IT ENDOSCOPY AND PUT
A SMALL INCISION IN MY LEFT SIDE.DOES HE BURN THE INTESTINE TOGETHER,BECAUSE I DON'T WANT THE STAPELS. IT WOULD MAKE NO
SENSE.HE SAID AFTER 3 DAYS THAT HE WOULD GIVE ME ICE CHIPS.
WILL I GET FED THROUGH A TUBE OR WHAT?

Paul Remski

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Specific questions re your surgery must be directed to your surgeon..morphine pumps are SOP, wife just had colon resection with 12 in removed..no post operative antibiotics and given her crohn's disease..I strongly recommend it as a post operative preventative maintenance...wish you all well and pray God sees you through this ordeal..yep ask for laproscopic....the ins companies know it costs more..so surgeons op for the std procedure (my guess)...my wife is on week 6 in recovery with at least another four weeks to go it seems...ugh

RENEE THORP-SUDOL

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I had a small bowel resection with a TA-60 stapling device in 2001 many hospital visits X9 small bowel obstructions, untill a doctor would finally listen went in to do surgery and found no scare tissue causing obstructions ..the TA-60 device was too small and replaced it with a TA-70. mY QUESTION IS... WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE OF THE TWO DEVICES

Larry

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I had a resection surgery conducted about 1 year ago. My ascending colon and appendix was removed. I was told I would have a complete recovery. The surgeon explained the rest of the intestinal system will re-learn how to process food, especially liquids.

So far, I still run to the bathroom about 1 to 2 times a week. From what I understand, the urge is compared to child birth labor (urge). I suspect this stems from not having the A-colon. On average, I have bowel movements 3 times a day. Somedays it is only 1, somedays it is 6 to 7 times a day. Hard to say why; have not found a pattern yet. Except for bready or doughy food products, my diet has changed little. Although, I have made it common to not eat as much fast-food or spicy foods.

Notwithstanding the extra gas and loud processing of the food and evidence of surgery, I feel pretty normal. But I am fairly certain I will never have constipation or very solid stools. And I better plan long trips or longer times away from a bathroom/restroom.

If anyone has more comments insight or just questions and wants an exchange of thoughts, email me at sdflipper@yahoo.com. Use some website reference so I know it probably wont be spam. I read my email about once a week.

Sheri

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I am having a sigmoid resection and colo-vaginal fistula repair. I am very scared. I would think it should not be any worse than I feel right now. Has anyone else had this combination surgery? What am I in for? My surgery is set for August 13th. Any pre-op hints would be greatfully appreciated. You can email me at firecopper@sbcglobal.net

Sheri

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Mel

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My 37 y.o son is having a bowel resection in the near future. He has a large polyp which was unable to be removed via colonoscopy. They (at Hopkins) also found dysplasia...not sure exactly where, but I believe it's near the polyp. He's meeting with the doc this week to discuss what to do next...which we know is surgery. We are praying there is no cancer. They took 10 markers to check for cancer and when the doc called him he said he wasn't sure as of yet, but is calling in an Oncolongist. Please pray and our prayers are with you all that have to go through this. Any encouraging thoughts?

Joyce

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I have just sent a note to Sheri...having had a colon resection along with a colo-vaginal fistula repair on August 31/09. Main difficulty is still not having normal bowel function...can't tell if I have"gas" or actual bowel movement. Hoping time will help, along with imodium tablet once a day.

rmmick

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I am 30 days post op from sigmoid colon resection surgery. Doing OK overall but last few days feeling an awful lot of pain in lower abdomin (by inscision). Is this normal at this time. My scar is about 6 inches long. I have started moving more and started to work from a bit. I am worried about really pulling on something and develping a hernia in that area. Are there any tell tale signs of a hernia associated with this surgery or around the inscision?

Thanks for the help :)

Helen A Rand

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I just has 12 inches of the simoid colon removed for diverticulosis on 5/10/10. My Dr has 30 years experiance and did the operation using the large scar and staples .I was happy with that as I am an old operating room nurse .I believe he can get a much better view through the larger opening. I did develop a paralitic ileus which took two weeks to resolve. They gave me Morphine 2 mgs for pain i had nightmares with this and asked them to cut it in half then asked them to cut it out after a week. I think the narcotic had something to do with the ileus. I am home now and getting stronger with each day , bowel movements will probably never be the same, i use Milk of magnesia which works well. I expect to be back to normal in another month

Mark

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I have had four colonoscopies in 6yrs and the latest showed up 35 polyps none were cancer. My surgeon has told me that because of the number of polyps he would do another colonoscopy in 6months which is two months from now. He has indicated if polyps are found he will do a gene test to see if the suspecting gene is activating the large number of polyps. He has also indicated that eventually if polyps continue at this rate that it is inevitable that one would be cancerous and an operation to remove part or all of the bowel should be undertaken.
Can anyone tell me if this is how things are done considering my history or are they just letting me know the worst case scenario.

Regards
Mark

wendy costello

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I have read the article and does the information still comply, the reason why I am asking is, My Mother has recently had a resection, unfortunately didn't go according to plan, I am not sure whether her bowel was cleaned prior to surgery and she was on normal diet literally 12hrs after surgery hence she had to have emergency surgery where by she ended up with an ileostomy and in Intensive Care, also had to have a further 2 more ops including traceostomy, still there, I am a nurse and it is hard for me to understand how this happened. Wendy

Joan Napoli

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Hi, Could you send me a sample diet for a recovering patient, I'll be caring for my sister who had emergency surgery in Mexico and will return next week. What should they add or delete from their previous diet. What is a normal activity level..suggested exercise parameters. Thanks you, Joan

patty

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It has been 4 years since my Bowel Resection. I recently (yesterday) had a Bowel movement which contained Blue Suture material tangles with fiber. When I pulled on the suture material to get it the rest of the way out it hurt so I cut it off up as far as I could.

Can you tell me what is going on with my body. How did this material get loose (about 10 inches came out and still some in there). Is there any danger of infection. what is it stuck on?

I called the surgon's office but can't get into see him for a couple weeks. Staff did not think this was serious. I am really afraid. Thanks for your help

Judy

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My husband and I live in a motorhome fulltime, so we are fairly mobile! I have dealt with IBSC for over 35 years (RN in good health at age 69) and managed it quite well until recently. My new diagnosis is intestinal pseudo obstruction, and I have elongated and tortuous intestines per colonoscopies. Elective resection surgery was posed to me as a possibility, and I'm intrigued by the laparoscopic approach. What source should I use to locate an experienced surgeon? My symptoms are returning and I don't want to have repeated bouts of high impactions (2/3 of my lg. intestines, with back-up into the small intestines) and weaken the walls of my intestines, threatening perforation. We are currently in Lake Placid, Fla. and have relatives in Roanoke, Va. and Cleveland & Columbus, Ohio areas.

Greg

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Family,

Please read this so you will know what I will be up against the end of January. This should answer all your questions.

Greg

Denise

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As a Nurse and a patient(I am scheduled for a sigmoid colectomy due to perforated Diverticulitis with abscess formation in the near future),I found your article to be informative and well written. It is my hope that any patient who requires major surgery will empower themselves with knowledge regarding their surgical procedure. Knowledge is power! Thank you.

Patti

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I had 100% of my colan removed 4 months ago. The Dr. was able to leave 3 centimeters of my Sigmoid. I am getting sicker as the days go on. Unable to work. Lots of presure and pain in my belly,back and bladder.Still have constipation so take a prescription laxative. Yesterday went to the bathroom 15 times. If I don't take the laxative I will be in pain and unable to go. Can't eat or I will get deathly sick. Going into a deep depression. I am not the person I use to be. It has been over a year that I have been this sick. Thinking about telling them to take the rest of my Sigmoid and live with a bag! I am 53 and trying to get my New Senior Home Care business off the ground. Someone, Please help!

karen

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Thought you might be interested in this. I'm sure you guys will be checking all of this out too.

Karen

Margie

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My son needs a bowel resection due to a perforation in his bowel and it's going into his bladder.He has a mesh in his abdomen because he had his spleen out 9 years ago from a car accident.Will this mean that he cannont have the laproscopic surgery?

ashley

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My mom had bowel reef survey six months ago and has had nothing but issues with it the thing is constent tummy pain through out her tummy and know one can tell is what is wrong could the survey been done wrong

Margaret Meusburger

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My husband was operated on a week ago for a bowel reconnection. So far he has not passed any wind and his abdomen is very swollen and dilated and painful.What is the next treatment required?

Faye

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I had a sigmoid colon resection surgery on Feb.28. Did well..I had a great surgeon!!!I went home 7 days later. Sore and 37 stainless staples to be removed on the 23rd of this month. I suffered with diverticula disease for years and the pain got so intense I passed out driving. I decided I had no more choice. I am thankful all turned out well. I had a regular anesthetic as well as an epidural in my back.. When you wake up you don't have to experience the pain. Nothing by both except ice chips. Then after you get the bowel sounds back and pass gas they give you clear liquid. Then the next day or so. full liquids. like cream of wheat, jello, ice cream soup etc. I am home and tolerting a regular diet. I haven't got a big appetite but need to focus on the healthy side and eat healthy when I can. If anyone needs a fantastic surgeon, I live in AZ. and his name is Wehling. He is a general and vascular surgeon. Fantastic bedside manner also... Hope this info helps someone.

Tana

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Went into the ER nearly a month ago for diverticulitis pain - ended up one of the diverticuli was perforated, leaking infection into my stomach. IV antibiotics cleared up the infection and I was sent home with more antibiotics and pain pills, which, thank goodness, I didn't take much of. Now I am having pain again - while in the hospital a general surgeon told me I needed a resection and would be receiving a colostomy. I've read that a "bag" is not always necessary. I'm clearly going to have to undergo the surgery in the very near future, but can't stand the thought of a colostomy and a second surgery to remove it. How do I find a surgeon who can do the surgery w/o the colostomy?

dave

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TANA dont worry about a "bag" i went in for resection on 27th April and came out 25th May
with out bag but had problems while in hospital and since coming out only wish my doctor would have given me a bag people with bag fitted were going home after 5-7 days i still off work and have been told to expect another 2 months off thats 4 month in all .

Tamara Stender

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Thank you for all this insight, I have just resently been diognosed with Colon Inertia, and they are scheduling surgery the first or second week in Sept. Just wondering is someone can explain what that is, and what kind of sugery it involves. And can it possible be cancerous?

Thank you for any help,

Tami

Jean

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HI. MY OB/GYN TOLD ME 4-5 YEARS AGO THAT MY BOWELS STOPPED WORKING (DUE TO SOFT TISSUE DISEASE) AND THAT IT IS PROTRUDING INTO MY VAGINAL WALL. I'VE MANAGED ON MY OWN TO KEEP THINGS MOVING THOUGH I ALSO EXPERIENCE CONSISTENTLY UNMANAGEABLE GAS. RECENTLY, I FOUND OUT THAT MY BLADDER HAS DROPPED TOO. OBVIOUSLY, THE OPTIMAL CHOICE FOR TREATING IS SURGERY. HOWEVER, I ALSO HAVE APLS, A VERY SERIOUS DISEASE WHICH CAN CAUSE CLOTTING (I HAD A HUGE BOWEL CLOT FOLLOWING MY LAST SURGERY (TOTAL HYSTERECTOMY).) MY LUNGS HAVE BEEN WEAKENING MORE AND MORE DUE TO CHRONIC BRONCHITIS (BOTH PARENTS WERE HEAVY SMOKERS), AND MY PCP SAYS ABSOLUTELY NO SURGERIES BECAUSE MY LUNGS ARE SO WEAK THAT I'D DIE FROM THE ANESTHESIA. MY LAST VISIT TO MY OB/GYN, I ASKED ABOUT USING A PESSORY. SHE (AND MY OTHER TWO DRS) SAID THAT SHE DOUBTS IT WILL WORK BECAUSE OF THE EXTREME PRESSURE INSIDE. PLUS, SHE SAID THAT DUE TO THE PRESSURE, MY VAGINA IS VERY VERY SMALL. I QUESTIONED HER ABOUT THE FACT THAT SOMETHING COMES OUT OF ME WHENEVER I HAVE A BOWEL MOVEMENT. I ASSUMED IT WAS THE BOWELS THAT ARE PROTRUDING INTO MY VAGINA; HOWEVER, SHE SAID THAT IT'S MY VAGINA COMING OUT. SINCE I CANNOT HAVE ANY SURGERY, I REALIZE THAT I WILL FACE MANY INFECTIONS, ESPECIALLY IF I CANNOT USE A PESSORY. FROM WHAT I READ ON-LINE, I SHOULD EXPECT MANY INFECTIONS. ANOTHER HUGE, HUGE PROBLEM IS THAT I AM ALLERGIC TO ALL PENICILLINS, SO I AM VERY LIMITED WITH MEDS. I USE ADVAIR TWICE A DAY AND THEODURE TWICE A DAY FOR MY LUNGS. I'VE BEEN VERY ILL FOR THE PAST 7 YEARS, BEDFAST THE FIRST TWO, IN A WHEELCHAIR FOR THREE, WALK WITH A CANE BETWEEN MOST OF THE TYPE, BUT I ALSO HAVE OPTIC NEURITIS, WHICH MY NEURO SAYS IS NEARLY IDENTICAL TO MS; AS A RESULT, I EXPERIENCE 'MS-LIKE' FLARES AND 'CRASH AND BURN'. DURING THAT TIME, I SPEND MOST OF IT IN BED BUT MUST RESORT TO MY WHEELCHAIR DURING FLARES. I KNOW THAT I HAVE A VERY COMPLEX HISTORY. JUST GOING TO THE BATHROOM IS A CHORE. NOT THAT THIS RELATES, BUT MY APS IS CAUSING ME TO LOSE ALL OF MY SIGHT. MY LEFT EYE IS TOTALLY GONE, AND MY RIGHT EYE IS 2/1400 WITH TOTAL DOUBLE AND CLOUDY, FUZZY SIGHT (ALSO DUE TO APS). ONE QUESTION: WOULD IT BE POSSIBLE TO USE AN EPIDURAL TO PERFORM ANY OF THIS? THANKS SO MUCH FOR ANY HELP/INFO YOU CAN GIVE. I LIKE THINGS STRAIGHT UP SO THAT I KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT. FOR EXAMPLE, TO JUST SAY TO ME, "YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH YOUR BOWELS" IS NOT ENOUGH. GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT IN MY FUTURE. THANKS.

Linda

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I had a lower bowel resection in August because of a carcinoid tumor. Since then I have gotten sharp left side pain. It hurts to lay on my right side when I have these pains, but somewhat tolerable on the left. Is there a serious reason for this or is it a result of the healing?

Thank you in advance for your help,

Linda

noreen

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hi, my father underwent his 2nd colon resection 10 days ago. he had his first resection sept 2009 and recovered without any problems after about 2 weeks he was back to his normal self eating without restrictions, no nausea, diarrhea, etc. the second surgery was done due to another tumor found in his colon during a routine colonoscopy my mom forces him to have every 6 months. he seemed to be recovering very well after his surgery. he started walking on the 2nd day after the surgery, pass gas too on the 3rd day, bowel movement on the 5th and he got discharged on the 7th day. now we are back in the hospital because because he complained of severe chest pains but after a round of test heart problem/heart attack was ruled out. he also complained of feeling super full and bloated and not being able to digest anything he takes in including water since he noticed a sound coming from his insides and described it as a bottle with water inside being sloshed around. he started throwing up 1 liter or more of yellow-green substance that looks alot like bile and feels better afterwards but only finding him repeating the process by sticking a finger down his throat to make himself feel better. he thinks that the water he thew up was the water he accumulated during the past 4 days he started eating. he doesnt want to take anything in fear that he might feel the severe chest pain he again. help! nobody can seem to tell me what is happening to him.

noreen

BRENDA REED

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I had a lower bowel resection in august of this year(2011) I am having lots of bowel issues. I have frequent urges to go but with little relief. Some days okay but most not. I have developed hemroids also with some bleeding. Does this ever get better?

Nikki

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Jean,
An epidural would not be appropriate for a procedure to that extent however I would ask about a spinal block, similar to an epidural but the medications are administered into two different locations. Epidural is only administered into the dura mater of the spine and the spinal block is administered in the subarachnoid space; allowing the medication to get into the CSF. Epidural is nice for a woman in labor but thats about it, a spinal provides loss of sensation to the entire body below the diaphragm. I really hope this helps but I am not an anesthesiologist or a doctor just a surgical technologist in training. God bless.

Karen

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I had my sigmoid removed due to severe diverticulitis and now I keep going to the bathroom. How long does it usually take to get back to normal?

bill

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I HAD BOWEL RESECTION FOR DIVERTICULITIS OCT.24th have bowel movements that are grape size lots of pressure ..gas.mucus..have started to have more normal stool movements followed by the other small movements.Does this ever get better? Dr did Follow-up CT Scan..Everything Good He says Patience?

Bill

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I am going in feb 6th for my second resection. My first was in 2006. I did not listen to doctors advice and quit taking my medication for Crohns disease after first surgery because i felt great. Now i wish that i would have. my first surgery was bad. I was in the hospital for 31 days with the first one, complications. This one is scaring me because all i have to go by is what happened the first time.
My doc is a great doc and told me that he has never lost a patient from this surgery and i am not going to be his first. Hope all goes well.

chelc

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I was in a car accident when i was 9 years old and suffered from seatbelt injuries which resolted in a bowel resection where they removed over 12 inches of my large intestine. I was becoming to be back to normal around a month after my wreck and have been in fine health since. I had twin daughters and had a c sec (something i thought my prior surgery would interfere with) but all went well and am pregnant with number 3 and planning oon another c section.the only problem is that i cant do sit ups for that long or eldse my scar tissue frome the bowel resec. will twitch n hurt but its scary but im here to tell you you will heal and the pain will be gone soon enough moderate exercise always helps no matter what and drinking water and staying away from cetain foods like spicy,caffine and other things that could aggravate your tummy! best of luck to all yins having or have just had the dreadful surgery!

Greg

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My Grandmother is in terrible pain from a gas build up in her stomach, she is not able to relieve the pressure through her stoma. She has lived with the bag for most of her life and has not had this problem before. The bouts come almost every day, sometimes twice a day and last for some hours, it is excruciating for her and very distressing for the family. The doctors have ruled out a hernia or any form of blockage, and advise nothing more than strong painkillers. I read above that sipping peppermint essesence in hot water and eating natural yoghurt can help, has anybody tried these remedies? Any other suggestions?

alba

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chalk test conducted in 1999 acending colon 10 times the needed size blunt trama in 1989 ripping this area and twisting with accumulated blood layers removed with water in 19993 1994 regain musle and tissue ever happen

Jolene

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I had a bowel resection from diverticulies in November of 2010. I also have a transplanted Liver and Kidney in 2009. I too have had bowel movement problems since 2010, some before but much worst since. My problem is I have diarreah also every day, and it starts around midnight and goes all night until about 6 or 7 in the morning. I am talking 3 fiber pills every day 1 in the morning and 2 in the evening. Doesn't help much, can anyone tell me why this only happens int night and not in the day. The Drs. pass it off. They thought it was what I was eating but it doesn't seem that it only one kind of food. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Mike

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I have a simnoid colon resection in August of 2011 (9 CM removed). Since then I have been in and out of the hospital because of severe bloating and pain, however every test run shows absolutely no problems. Most days I have bowel movements in excess of 5 with no true pattern. One may be diarhea, the other solid, one soft, etc. I feel like it is wasting the time of many going to the hospital so much, but am clueless to what is going on, Any suggestions. My diet is watched closely, etc

Jimmy

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5 months ago I had a colorectal surgery to remove cancerous polyps. I had to have a temp. colostomy scheduled to be reversed in 2 weeks. The incision in my abdomen was 12" long and in the middle next to my naval was an incision 5 3/4" long and 3 1/2" wide x 2" deep. It has healed nicely, however I have these 2 pones on either side of my incision(middle). Is this fat or could it be scar tissue.

Pat

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Two years ago I was dianosed with a large tumor. They removed about 12 inches of my colon as well as my cicum. I take one diarrhea daily. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not.

Is there any other medications I can take that is better for my system?

What are some foods that would be good for me?

Linda Flanigan

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To Mike, Jimmy and Pat. I also had a colon resection done (cancerous polyp) in September of 2010. Everything that you have described is probably what most people experience. My first year was extremely frustrating, but it does get better. My Dr. basically told me to go back to my normal diet(not true). I have tried many ntural remedies and my chiropractor advised me to be sure and take probiotics (the refrigerated ones found at nutrional stores) and an enzyme for digestion. Ijust bought some fennel tea (which aids in digestion and gas, etc) and will let you know how that works. What I have found out with my diet, is the best thing to do is not eat too much of a variety of foods at one time. I love vegtables, fruits, etc but they dont always digest well. Also, eat small amounts of the foods you like and that helps me alot.Walking and excersize helps. It is extremely frustrating at times, but don;t give up too soon. My next step is to go see a dietician for further help. If any of you wish to e-mail me, my e-mail address is lindaflanigan@live.com. We have to be there for moral support, beleive me!!! PS I go see Dr every 6 mos now for my blood work. Good luck to all of you, and if you have any of your own suggestions, please pass them along. Linda flanigan

Jane

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I had right hemi colectomy six months ago and yes I had trouble with diarhhea. It eventually turned out I had become extremely lactose intollerant and still cant each raw vegetables like salad. So it may be you need to adjust your diet. Keep a diary, remove some foods and see what happens.

James

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I had a Right hemi colectomy 6 weeks ago because i had a very large pre-cancerous polyp, i was 27 years old at the time which is extremely rare, and am lucky to be alive. I was distended and in horrible pain for 10 days, (in hospital for 13). My bowels began to work again on their own, peppermint tea helped allot and moving around in bed, feels like it will never end but does. I also had an Ileus, which resulted in me having a gastric tube placed down my nose into my stomach to drain the bile from my stomach, it was the worst ten days of my life bar none, i couldn't eat until day 11. These symptoms a rare but thought people should know what can occur. I have a massive scar which has only just healed, still have muscle pain around the abdomen.

Rita

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I had a bowel resection in Aug 2009 due to diverticulitus and then had to have a tidy up in January 2011 due to scar tissue and the reconnection not being the best. Before I had the resection, I had lost a load of weight and was in fact under weight, but since my last operation I have gained fat around the laporoscopy area which is very uncomfortable. I eat sensibly and actively exercise, but nothing will shift this great lump from my stomach. Like others, I suffer with loose stools, persistent wind and quite frequent diarehoea. My stomach problem is affecting not only my ability to buy clothes, but is VERY uncomfortable when doing yoga and pilates. Any suggestions.

Rita

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Becky

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I am a 46 year old woman who on August 6th had a complete hysterectomy and bowel resection. I had a mass of endometriosis on my rectum, so that is why I had to have the resection. I had an ileostomy for almost 3 months, so the resection could heal I had the ileostomy take down 3 weeks ago. Still am afraid to leave the house for more than 20 minutes. If I make a quick run, I make sure I put on an adult brief. I can hardly make it to the bathroom. How long before this gets better? Is there anyone else out there who had this kind of trouble for endometriosis. Please let me know.

Mohammad Ebrahim

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Hello, The article is very good . Just I want to point to some rare indications for partial or total colectomy that were not mentioned in the article but I have met in many references , they are pseudomembranous colitis that can not be controlled by chemotherpeutics , chronic dys-functional colitis , and ischaemic bowel diseases which is common only in very old patients .

Robert

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Thank you for this article. I have recently undergone my 4th operation for chrons related symptoms, 2 resections approx 8 strictures, my recent surgery went well but i am now concerned because my surgeon has called me up and wants to speak to me ASAP regarding results they have from the damaged bowl. I am dreading the consultation as I fear the worst ie cancer. My point, I have not found any articles that prepare you for this situation post op, ie what happens after the operation what gets tested and why ? Anyways I had a look at the percentages regarding colorectal cancer and this is encouraging so thank you for providing this information. I know this may not be the results that are given but I fear the worst, I suppose it's in some of our worst fears that get confirmed that gives me great concern.

Regards

R. Hornall

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I have been dealing with IBSC for over a decade now; I was put on Amitiza and worked my way up to the maximum dose allowed with no relief. I have had a colonoscopy and am on my 2nd Sitz-Marker test. I am now taking a cocktail of OTC constipation remedies that help a little but, Heaven forbid, should I skip even one of them; this cocktail consists of 75 - 100 mg of sennosides, 1T Citrucel and 17g of Miralax..every day. I am currenty consulting with a surgeon as I am considering colectomy. I have found very little reference as to the long term results of a colectomy for constipation.I am actually considering just a partial colectomy as my colon is not damaged or diseased...just extremely slow. My surgeon warned me of loose stools and bowel incontinence after the surgery; but, he is also only thinking of a total colectomy. Any information, suggestions or experiences would be greatly appreciated.

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Was just dx w/ severe diverticulosis. would like to know if leg pains are related to this?

Mary

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In 2006 I was rushed to Emergency 3 times due to abdominal pain. It was discovered after much prompting on my part to my doctors that I had Cecum Bascule. I had 2 feet of my large colon removed along with my cecum. This is a rare bowel disorder from what I understand and the stats at the time of surgery said it had 100% morbidity rate. This disorder creates multiple polyps and research indicates they do not discover this disorder until autopsy from death by Colon Cancer. Since that time I was diagnosed with Diabetes. I have chronic diarrhea and any change of diet has no affect. As time passes, the diarrhea gets worse and at this point feel like I have Crohns because I can't be far from the bathroom as when I have to go, I have to go now. In addition, I cannot find much information because this is so rare. 5 years after the resection I had to have my gall bladder removed which has compounded the problem. When you are going to have a resection, make sure you get the facts about not just the after care but the long term care.

Lauren

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My husband has a fistula related to melanoma cancer connecting his intestine to his colon. He will be having a double bowel resection to remove the fistula. Many of you describe diarrhea AFTER the procedure. Does it get better? He currently has diarrhea 5-6 times a day with no relief from immodium.

Kitty

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I had abowel resection Feb.2012.My life has not been the same since.I really would like to have someone to talk too.I can not be away from a bathroom and most days I do not feel well at all.I have no control of my bowel movements,i still where adult diapers.My email is kittyzabroski@yahoo.com.Ihad the resection because of scar tissue.I had 1.5ft of large and 1.5 of sm removed.And the gas never in my life...does it ever get better...

Jack

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I had a partial resection of my colon in 1999 following severe bleeding after a colonoscopy. I was on warfarin because of a prosthetic aortic valve. Initially, I was under the impression that very little was left of my colon (4 or 5 inches). The surgeon could not identify which polyp removal site was causing the bleed so he had to remove most of it. During subsequent colonoscopies my colon appears to be getting longer. Either the orignal estimate was wrong or my colon is growing. I am age 65. I also have Marfans syndrome. In 2007 I was diagnosed with acromagely. I have had surgery for both conditions. I had the tumor on my pituitary removed, but my growth hormones (IGF1) continue to be outside the normal range. Could the excess growth hormones cause my colon to grow, or should I consider that initial estimate in 1999 to have been an error?

Joanne

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Jack #65
I think the original estimate was off. The colon is 5 feet. The polyps can be removed without removing any of the colon. I've been through 4 surgeries (just found out looking at a 3 resection) and 6 polyp removals.

Velva Goodman

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My 85 year old mother was diagnosed with diverticulitis in the sigmoid section of her colon in August. She had a 10cm abscess which was drained and 2 drains were inserted, one in the abdomen, the other in her bottom. She is still complaining of nausea but no pain. The doctors want to do the resection but at her age, I'm afraid she shouldn't have this surgery. She is in a skilled care facility and I feel as long as they can control her other complaints, why put her through such an extensive surgery? Her quality of life is better now that she is going through rehab and other therapies for other reasons but this is too much for a woman her age. Ultimately, it is her decision but I am trying to give her information on exactly what she will face during and especially after. They have already said she will have a colostomy, this means yet another surgery to have it reversed. I'm torn. She's not in the best of health as it is and was resigned to enter the facility voluntarily after she could no longer care for herself at her home safely after numerous falls and calls to 911 for help to get up either off the floor or out of the recliner she spent the night in because she couldn't get up. At her age, I really don't think this type of surgery will prolong her quality of life and may hasten her demise if infection or complications set in.

Ed Dumas

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I had sigmoid colon resection 4 months ago. I was able to avoid a bag. I had drainage for 2 mos. following surgery and was treated for infection during that time with a set of oral antibiotics. When the drainage stopped I felt good having normal bowel movements for maybe the first time in my life. I had chronic diverticulitus for years and it finally perforated my colon. This past week I started to have pain in area of colon and skin around incision. I went to ER running a 103 temp. and was admitted to hospital diagnosed with an abses below incision the size of a small apple. My surgeon lanced the area of incision that was last to close and drained a lot of reddish fluid. I left the hospital yesterday after a 48 hr. stay and IV antibiotics. I am home again with dressings to change along with packing and the oral antibiotics. My question are these; 1) How concerned should I be about reoccurring infection at this point? 2) its been 1-1/2 years since last colonoscopy, at that time had precancerous polyps removed by a different doctor who didn't seem overly concerned and said 5 yrs. until next colonoscopy. I've had several and removed polyps before but don't remember ever hearing they were precancerous. Should I get a colonoscopy sooner? Hy recent surgeon says "I don't need to worry about diet anymore but try not to over do carbs." I still do my fiber mix routine every morning. What are your thoughts about those two things? I want to be as proactive as possible and certainly want to avoid any reoccurring infection and or diverticulitus even though the 8" section removed was the area with the problematic area with the bend removed. Let me know what you think, thank you.

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I had chronic diverticulitis. I initially had bleeding for three days after surgery and ended up having to have a blood transfusion. Could not eat for a few days without throwing up plus had no appetite anyway so was put on IV nutrition. The doc said mine was a complex case. The diseased section was low in the sigmoid colon - 10 inches was cut out. I was in the hospital for 7 days. On day 5 I started doing better/feeling better. I am in third week of recovery at home and doing great for the most part. I try not to just sit or lay down most of day. I get up and move around often and try to do very light housework. Following recovery directions to the T about food and everything else. Still have the occasional aches in stomach area, more good days than so-so days. No loose stools but have had feeling of constipation two times in three weeks. Once, I waited and it resolved on its own time schedule - I was expecting to go when I felt that feeling that I needed to go but body had it's own time schedule. The other time I took a small dose of Milk of Mag. Drinking lots of water per directions and I am not normally a big water drinker. Despite those first 4-5 days after surgery and a blood transfusion, I have no regrets getting this operation done. My life will be so much better now - no more chronic diverticulitis, no taking strong dual antibiotics for two -three weeks at a time to treat infections, E.R. trips, hospitalizations, no horrible severe pain, no chronic pressure/discomfort type feeling in left side. Dealt with that on and off for 10 years! Operation was suggested five years ago and I refused to do it - it sounded too scary. Last episode of diverticulitis convinced me that I just couldn't tolerate the pain and risks anymore. I think taking the refrigerated probiotic capsules twice a day during recovery have helped digestive system tremendously.

roberthagett

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Six days postoperative bowel resection readmission with gastric problems then developed femoral thrombus . what is the percentage of incidence of this type of circulatory involvement following bowel resection ?

Donna

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Had emergency surgery December 15 2013 for diverticulitis with fistulas needed a bag which was a night mare. I am recovering from re-connective surgery April 23 2014 still a little sore. A large incision from under breast to almost vaginal area and of course where the stoma was. I am so happy not to have the bag and with a great surgical team I would recommend the surgery

Shawn

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My wife had 8 inches of her colon removed 2 months ago.After 2 weeks went by she had a hard time breathing dizzy when she gets up no energy at all. She has a hard time even trying to take a shower . She said it feels very tight in her chest has 0 energy.we have been back to the hospital 2 times stayed in for 10 they ran every test u could imagine and have not found anything . Does anyone no if anyone has had this
Issue after colon resection .

Suzan

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I had a sigmoid colon resection 4 1/2 months ago. My concern is that now my abdomen stays distended with a large buldge on the left side of left upper abdomen. When I eat, the buldge becomes larger along with abdomen also becomes larger for quite some time and does not seem to be resolved. Has no relation as to bowel movements. I had a post op illeus after I was sent home 5 days postop and returned for another 7 days. Was wandering if the illeus could have caused problems with healing of surgical area. Im not a surgeon, but was wandering if anyone would know if the peritoneum is suppose to be closed before the incision and could this be the reason? Also the xray on in the ER for illeus revealed some ascites. Would this be a concern following this type of such a surgery and the reason behind the abdominal distention? If any one has answers please email me at: szthompson@zoomtown.com. Thanks!

Sharon bradley

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I just had bowl resection surgery. Came home today. It went very well , hospital stay 6 days, had drain tube, ng tube, after surgery. They give you pain pump. I was dreading the drain tube removal and it was nothing! Cutting the stitches hurt more than taking it out! I'm very sore , but on my way to recovery! Don't be scared of the surgery! Good luck and God bless you. Eat & be health You!

millie

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I had a transverse colon resection 6 months ago due to a motor vehicle accident trauma, part of the colon was removed...now I am left with hyper peristalsis among other problems and have to take Lomotil every 6 hours daily due to diarrhea. However, on a given day I may have several diarrhea stools along constipated stools...who knows why...I have kept a diary to no avail...my GI doc didn't care to look at it. Have severe pain one day ok the next after eating exactly the same food at the same time.
Its difficult to plan outings cause I don't know what "today " will be like. Always have to be near a bathroom...and hope no one is using it when I go in there. And bless the person in the next stall...having to put up with the "sound effects and thunder coming from my stall". Its embarrassing, but what can one do? Sometimes I feel I have to explain why.

My family and friends tell me its ok to have these problems as its better than the alternative...DEATH!
Its hard to have to live life this way..but I am trying different things, foods, and activities and I am hoping to find a more normal life schedule.

Richard Kirby

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My son is in the hospital now and has not been diagnosed with FAP or anything but they are going to run some test on him Monday. He is 8 years old and has had stomach problems all his life. He has been hospitalized numerous times for being impacted. They are cleaning him out with a NG Tube with GoLytely running into the feeding tube also running fluids with IV. Today he passed a few white lumps that looks like fatty tissue and was round looking. And from 2006 to 2009 they have done colonoscopy and came back good but have not done one since 2009. I took a picture of it and googled it and with the photo the results came back it resembles anal cancer. But this has not been confirmed by test yet. with the photo scan with google. A second opinion would greatly appreciated.

esmeralda

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My mother just had surgery .had 8inchs removed. Her surgery went well thank god. She's had a few complications though like a lot of nausea. And she mentions having a lot of discomfort in her rectom and gets very nauseas when she drinks sprite. If anybody has any of these issues and knows If this is normal please let me know pesmi64@gmail.com

Terri Houston

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I would like to know the answers to questions 5 and 6 please. Thank you

Maggie

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I had a colon resection 2 months ago by keyhole surgery. All went well. I now have a burning sensation pain to the left of my tummy button where they put the camera in and removed the diseased bowel. I was in hospital with the pain yesterday. They checked me out and said it may well be Neuropathic pain. I only have the pain when i stand up and walk around for a few minutes. Any suggestion of how i can treat this? I have a few days off work before I have to go back. I await your reply and thank you in advance.

John

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Hi i am 42 years old male and had a lower anterior resection due to stage 0 colon cancer. They removed about 10 inches of my sigmoid colon. I continue to take 1 teaspoon of Metamucil in the evening but continue to have erratic bowels 5 to 9 on different days and difficult to evacuate never feeling empty. After these episodes I'm exhausted and want to just lay down. Anyone post 1 year with same residuals? Please reach me by email with colon cancer as subject. Ty

Ann marasco

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Hi I had 13in of sigmoid colon removed. I was told I could eat anything after surgery. It's 3 yrs since surgery and still can't eat fruits vegetables salads. The first year I had a serious infection which took its toll. Currently I have a few good weeks without pain. But it's a roller coaster ride. Still can't make plans to travel. Always need to know where the bathroom is located. I am grateful to be alive but discouraged. My faith in God keeps me going along with friends and family. Now I'm suffering with painful IBS. My dr has put me on meds for it. Thank you all for sharing your stories, I don't feel crazy. No one else can really understand. Another major symptom is fatigue. I've been taking vitamin b supplements which help. Also drink Boost which seems to help. God bless you

Ann marasco

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Ella-Maria Dick

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My daughter has had a bowel resection a few days ago, she was only 40 last month and her first baby is only nearly a year old. she has a temporary bag plus a bowel drain. She was in I.C.U. for 3 days after operation. Is that normal? She was going into a normal ward today. She thought she would be out of hospital within 5 day, but as far as I have read normal is at least 7 days. which means she may not be out until January. She also had another small piece cancer taken out of another part of her abdomen. She had a pett scan last week which also showed up suspect areas in her lung. But complete diagnosis hadn't been finished about her lung yet. Also she was told she would probably need chemo, started before she left hospital. What are her chances of beating this. Her grandfather died of bowel cancer, he found out about it too late, the only reason my daughter was diagnosed on time was that the tumour ulcerated and burst, unfortunately with it bursting some cancer cells may have spread through bloodstream. What does anyone think about it. Please message me privately.

Missy

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March of 2011 I had a sigmoid colectomy. I am a 42 year old woman and weigh 165 pounds at 5 foot 5 inches tall. I'm giving specifics on my height and weight because I do not believe that has anything to do with the problem. However, one week after my surgery I started having serious complications of a straining feel in my rectum. The first time it happened I pushed so hard because I had the urge to go to the bathroom but there was no void and all I pushed out were hemorrhoids. After many many visits with my gastrointestinal surgeon he decided to put me on Bella Donna and opium suppositories. I stayed on those for 9 months and inserting two suppositories daily to keep the urge of having to use the bathroom away. After much prayer and research I found out that I was deficient of water and as long as I drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water a day then I never had the problem however, in the last 6 months, water does nothing for me anymore. I was off of the suppositories for 4 years and now I'm having to use them once a day again. My doctor told me that I was the first one to ever tell him anything like that and he wrapped it up as being rectal spasms. I am now wearing adult diapers because the issue has gotten so severe that I never know if it's going to actually be some sort of bowel movement or just gas from the pressure of this straining feel. If there is anyone that has had any type of symptom like this please let me know if there is an answer. My doctor cannot figure out what it is since he has never heard of this, but when I have bowel movements which are about 12 times a day they look similar to straws and are very loose. Not only has my doctor diagnosed me with IBS after my surgery but this is a constant pressure feel of having to go have a bowel movement. There is no pain with it but it is so frustrating to be out in public and have it happen and now that it's happening more often on a daily base I have to have help.

Leslie Hadland

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I had a colon resection because of continued diverticulitis on January 25, 2016. The diverticulitis was a battle for me, due to 6 bouts in 1 1/2 years. I also have microscopic colitis and Graves. I feel that life was so much better before the surgery. I controlled my colitis and graves with diet and exercise, with taking Cipro for the diver. My husband and I met with the surgeon who assured me that after having the resection I could live the same way, only better. Before the surgery I was a very active 48 year old woman. I would hike everyday 4 to 6 miles and 10 on weekends. I am becoming depressed and a person who is afraid to leave my home. The feeling of not finding a bathroom was never an issue for me before the surgery. In reading the above this seems to be all of our new normal. I also have the urge to go several times a day, never voiding all the way. I now starve myself all day and only eat once I am home for the night. I have started to hike again, but feel exhausted and frustrated.

gayak ranjan mohanta

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My father had undergo colonectomy .bt the bowel movement is not accure since 7 days..he is suffering from heavy gastric problem..any suggestion for me how to resume the bowel movement..??

misty

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hi i just had a bowel resection for chrones disease and i was wandering are you suppose to feel pain in your ribs and lungs afterwards i did have pnoumonia in hospital but im home and im out of breath and feel sharp painns in my lung and ribs it hurts to walk because of it and it comes and goes is this normal should i feel this

Lynette Reed

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I had a bowel resection Match 25 2016. Felt good after for 4-5 days. But now lots of mucus.Actually pretty much only mucus sometimes brown color but usually clear. Even just slight exertion like getting up from sitting. Have not had normal bowel movement since coming home. Feel like I have to go about 8-10 times a day but again only mucous. Go thru about 6 or more depends a day. Eating only soft foods such as soups scrambled eggs,bananas rice etc. Still no bowel movement. Even after eating. Waiting for call from surgeon but would like some input from anyone experienced in bowel resection.

Karen Wairau

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I was diagnosed with perforated diverticulitis in 2013 at the age of 59 years three months after retirement. I spent 3 weeks in the public hospital with no surgery and they treated my infection with strong antibotics. Lost 25 kilos. My life took a back step when I was discharged from hospital. Constant pain day and sleepless nights. lLived on painkillers unable to feel like exercising and not being motivated. I was told I had to manage my condition. I went back to my GP several times - painkillers not working. He prescribed anti-depressants which I refused to take. My health slowly deteriorated I spent most of my time lying down resting. I decided I had enough this wasn't living. I had a private CT scan and blood tests showed inflamed colon and large mass in my stomach with low iron deficiency. Back to emergency public hospital early March 2016 in 4 days. Infection treated with antibotics. Spoke with surgeons and decided to go private. I had a sigmoid colon resection on 4 April this year plus they removed a large walled off mass (probably had been there since 2013 but was getting bigger). The operation took 5 hours with open surgery (Large cut from belly button to top of pelvic area) and no bag. I had it done privately with a very experienced surgeon. Can't speak high enough of the care I received from the private hospital. I was in hospital for 10 days. The physio got me out of bed only after 24 hours (so sore.) Kept moving slowly doing the exercises to stop chest infections and pneumonia. Today it has been 5 weeks. I can now drive my car. Slowly returning to a balanced diet after being on residue low fibre (bland) and low fibre diet. I feel great no painkillers for the last week. Still have slight healing pain in centre of stomach. No heavy lifting allowed and another month of recovery. Good balanced diet plenty of fruit and vegetables. Can't wait to get back into walking with my dogs. I did a lot of research beforehand. Never be afraid to have a list of questions before you see your doctor, specialists or surgeons beforehand. Always have a close family members with you on these visits They can be your ears too and also have questions. My daughter, son and husband were there all the way. They were fantastic.

Rebecca

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I had a patial colonectomy Sept 2015 cut from above belly button to pelvis. Had some problems after surgery with infection. Here it is June 2016 I have no thirst, I eat little because I stay nauseated all the time and feel like I'm walking in mud. Doctor doesn't seem to know why

Reina

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Am 63 yrs, just 2 weeks ago had a part (10-20cm) of the sigmoid taken out via laparoscopy, after the one and only polyp that was found turned out to be stage T-1. Was in intensive care 2 days, and could go home six days after operation. Lab test of the part taken out says it was clean, and i'm happy! Am impressed with the medics. Scars look very neat, the biggest being 5 cm, horizontal hidden under the bikini line. Super gently massaging the area around. Am taking lots of good bacteria for now to restore the intestinal flora. And miso, tempeh, yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut. Am anyway vegetarian, avoid gluten and sugar. After op noticed my memory was slightly affected, which seems to be caused by the anestesia and is getting better already . Yesterday when going for a longer walk noticed bowel habits yes are different now, which makes sense after i read sigmoid is a 'parking place' before exiting. :-). Altogether a good experience for me.

Reina

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Adding to my previous post today. It seems to me that many of the complaints after operation are caused by the intestinal flora not being restored well enough. High quality good friendly bacteria, probiotics, good quality yoghurt etc. are essential. I'm only 2 weeks after the op, so it is early days for me, lets see. I was many years easier with (partially) cooked food, and prefer 2 rather than 3 meals a day, to give digestion more time. Slowly now stool seems ok, although at the moment is more frequent, and with shorter notice. All the best to you all!

Reina

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Adding to my previous 2 posts, and this is really the last one. One more thing i did, and i did a LOT, was breathing deep from the moment i woke up in the intensive care. Slow deep breaths, hands on the belly to know where to breathe to, to send healing/relaxation to the area that needs it. And then after that as much as possible. One not very clever thing i did was lay on my right side after several days, when i got fed up with laying on my back all the time. That side had the drain, and of course triggered pain. Don't do the same please.

Julie Robinson

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I had a sigmoid resection 8* in 2003. I had IBS since 1994. If you have IBS-C DO NOT HAVE THIS PRODURE! My life has been a living hell with
constant pain akin to labor pain every day!! The doctor told me that I would feel much better after surgery. Instead he narrowed my rectum so that Now I need to have complete diarrhea to be able to void without pain. I was on pain meds for 13 years. I have decided to stop them and that has been even worse than living hell. I am half way there. Withdrawal is murder. Now, every time I have a Bm, I can feel my stitches pulling and it hurts a lot. I don't know how much more I can take!!

Chris

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The surgeon said if the removal of the 3 1/2 cm benign tumor, near my belly button, had resulted in bowel resection that my 8 cm midline scar from just above belly button to my solarplex would have been from my bikini line up past the middle of my rib cage instead. It looks as though Reina from Post #91 had a much bigger and more extensive procedure, with a smaller and much less noticeable scar. I had thought that my female surgeon would have cared more about how important my appearance is to me as a woman with self esteem issues?? I used to love wearing bikinis at the beach. Now I can't go anywhere that people wear summer clothes that show their bellies without feeling like crying. My social life has since become practically non existent. I used to date a lot too. Now my gardens and my hobbies are my social life because socializing (etc.) is very unpleasant whenever I have any awareness of how my vertical midbelly scar looks and how it feels, and how unattractive I feel because of it. Is what happened to me from that surgery normal, considering it was 2015? I had no previous surgeries, my history only involved epigastric pain for only 1 week upon discovery of the tumor, the surgery was a scheduled surgery 3 weeks later, the scan before surgery showed only very minimal inflammation with no potential obstructions, I had not received any injury to my abdominal area, and the tumor was not attached to any arteries or organs. Is it true that some surgeons do laparotomies instead just because they are easier for them to do than laparoscopies, and that they prefer the patient ends up with a needlessly larger and much more noticeable lifelong scar from their laparotomies? rather than refer them to a surgeon (or have another surgeon as backup if their laparoscope were to fail, but mine didn't even try to use a laparoscope) who would minimize the size of the scar by doing it with a laparoscope or a Da Vinci machine instead? She told me to look at my 2 other scars on different parts of my body that are smaller and barely noticeable, as an idea of what my belly scar would look like. Yet a plastic surgeon told me that as unsightly as my belly scar is 1 1/2 years later that is never going to go away or get any smaller, that such scars are often wider and more raised on others with similarly sized mid belly scars. Why aren't people told the truth about how much worse scars can be when on the face, or the belly and torso areas, than on different parts of the body, which necessitates less invasive procedures whenever possible? My regular doctor who did my pre op thought she would be doing a laparoscopy on me and she did not tell him otherwise. If procedures such as mine were standardly done in such a manner nowadays then wouldn't larger scars like mine from such small benign tumors be much more common? Or are there others such as myself also who become socially withdrawn as a result of such scars, and thus not out there to be seen, and perhaps warn others? PS. RE Post 94: Is it possible that Julie is having pain from something like adhesions where her stitches were, or a piece of a surgical tool left in her? My heart goes out to her, and I pray there is a really good doctor out there who will heal her.

Samuel R Hall

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i had a sigmoid colostomy for twenty-five years as a result of rectal bleeding after stools. In 2001,a surgical team had to remove my entire colon and stump,and rectum. I was in the hospital 23 days with Septic Shock. I have been in horrible pain for 16 years after the surgery,every day and night. My life was destroyed from the surgery.I was even flatlined by one of the surgeons while in ICU after being given Phenerghan,which i had noted on all my paperwork that i am highly allergic to it. It would be impossible to tell all the details of the misery i have suffered in for the last 16 years ,but i pray a lot for God to let me die. I have been to nine Urologists and not one of them will do anything to help me. Thanks O'rangeo

BurgerMum

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Had colorectal resection July 2013and reconnection Jan 2014 due to stage 3 cancer. Life has changed dramatically. Used to be athletic and eat anything. Now I eat the same thing every day as I've developed food "intolerance" to fruits, veggies and spices. To keep weight on I eat red meat and buns otherwise I have diarrhea. I take Metamucil 1tbl with only 2oz water morning and night. Also bentyl. I'm constantly tired from several bowel movements a day, fear of needing a bathroom and not having access, always worrying about all the issues that come with this dreadful outcome. Yes I'm alive but I'm all alone in my misery. Doctors are quick to dismiss or pass me on to the next specialist. I've done it all. Just waiting for it to end.

BurgerMum

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The best help I've had is a Dr of Naturopathic Medicine, FYI. The MDs, surgeons, PCPs all dismiss my food concerns and tell me to eat everything. A food intolerance they say is not a reason to give up a food. (!!!) Obviously they have no clue about how much eating a tiny bit of parsley or string beans or sunflower seed/oil impacts my day. Pain, gas, rectal spasms, and many trips to the bathroom keep me a prisoner and a tortured soul.

Nick

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I have diverticulitis. I am a 71 year old male, in good shape exercising daily and eating well, most of the time. I was diagnosed with diverticulitis 3 years ago and the doctor said I should have an operation. I resisted and got a second opinion from another doctor. He told me to begin taking in much more fiber (Metamucil). It worked, but every so often I would begin to feel bad and had stomach pains and some constipation. However I continued the with the high fiber and also took Zantac. About one or two days after taking the Zantac the symptoms of diverticulitis went away. However I recently had another episode but this time the symptoms would not dissipate, but I was still moving my bowels but felt washed out with pains in my stomach. The doctor has prescribed antibiotics and I am presently taking them. I feel better and expect the symptoms to dissipate. My question is should I go in and have the surgery now or continue to try and control the diverticulitis without the surgery?

Emily

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My mom is 76 years old have a 30 cm small intestine removed 3 months ago the first 3 weeks she try to move from her bed to a the bathroom now she can't move no more she's so week and diarrhea is so rapid and so much, she's surfing this is not a life. Can someone tell me how is this going to continue till the worst happens? Not long I hope. Thank you

100

Jan

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I had a an iliostomy reversed 8 days ago. Everything has been ok until today. I had a show of blood -small clot. Didn't think much about it but 3 hours later I had more blood in my stool. I wonder if this is normal.

101

Jack

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I am 75 years old. A month ago part of my colon was removed, because I had a large polyp with a spot of cancer. Had i known that the surgery would leave me so debilitated, I would have let the slow-growing cancer run its course.Just over a month ago, I was a vigorous competitive athlete.Now I am weak and when i walk, I feel as if I could topple over at any moment. Perhaps I am too impatient and there will be some dramatic improvement. Without the surgery, i probably would have had several years of happy, vigorous life.. I greatly regret allowing the doctors to talk me into having my ascending colon removed.In just over a month i have gone from riding my bike 40 to 60 miles day to someone who has trouble walking.

102

Dr supreet

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I just want to know about recovery status in old age pt. suffering from adenocarcinoma in transverse colon
Because one of my family member is suffering so many complications after surgery and now main issue is she had undergone secondary suturing bt again after few days had so much ckear discharge and we came to know that again inside wound is open like abdomen or sheath as protein level is less in her

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