My GI told me the same thing after my colon resection(with 18" removed), as far as stretching the colon goes...I think these doctors often assume that it is that simple because they don't understand that the etiology of adhesions...that even though surgery was performed on the large intestine, adhesions can form around the small intestines causing partial bowel obstructions.
Adhesions act as a noose in my small intestines, making it difficult for food and gas to pass through. My experience and symptoms are the same as this person describes. I also have trouble with my bladder, often even when it is full, I cannot go. Her colonoscopy will likely report normal findings, as mine did, as the scope does not reach the small intestine.
Meal replacement drinks are essential to me, and a more liquid mushy diet helps. Also your posting with the info on the low-residue diet should be helpful to her.
Love,
Janet
>----- Original Message -----
From: "Helen Dynda" <olddad66@runestone.net>
To: "Multiple recipients of list ADHESIONS"
<adhesions@mail.medispecialty.com>
Sent: Friday, March 09, 2001 2:28 PM
Subject: PLEASE HELP...if you are experiencing a similar situation...
> Today I received the following letter. If you are experiencing a similar
> situation, do you have any suggestions that might help her?
>
> ~ ~ ~ ~
>
> "I had several attacks of diverticulitis and was hospitalized. I was told
I
> needed surgery or I could end up in the emergency room with peritonitis,
> which could be life-threatening. I had surgery in June, 2000 and had 12
> inches of colon removed. After a hospital stay of 6 days, I went home.
>
> "I started having problems with pain and elimination right away. The
> surgeon told me to use stool softeners. They do not help me. I know I
have
> a partial obstruction from scarring; my stools are pencil thin.
>
> "The surgeon told me he can go back in and sew the intestines back
together
> leaving a larger opening to allow for any subsequent scarring.
> This scares me. What if I end up in worse shape?
>
> "The GI doctor told my husband he could do a colonoscopy on me and use a
> device on the scope which would "stretch" my colon in the restricted area.
> This also scares me. Have you ever heard of stretching the colon?
>
> "Meanwhile, I work full time and suffer with pain, trying to get my bowels
> to function so I can keep going. Any thoughts you may have would be
> appreciated."
>