Humira and scar tissue

[tammigurl]

I think I already know the answer to my question but I just want some clarity on it.
I am about to start on Humira. I just had a colonoscopy and my GI said she could only get about 10 cm into my colon because of scar tissue and kinks etc. I know the Humira will help minimize future scarring but will it do anything for the current stuff? I've had Crohn's for about 28 hrs now so I'm guessing there's a nice build up there!!
I'm wondering also, why the GI hasn't suggested removing it before I start the Humira......any thoughts?

Thanks for all and any input

Tammi

 

[jasmin.taylor]

Hi Tammi

I'm Jasmin and I'm new to the site. I am currently on Humira and I have been now for almost three years. I was on Remicade before, but my symptoms came back after around 8 months of that treatment.
I'm not entirely sure as to why your GI has suggested that the removal be done after the Humira commencement, but I'm going to assume it's because the GI believes that with the use of Humira, it will clear the blockage.

All I know is that I am a strong advocate for Humira, I have to take methotrexate along with the Humira, but I do know that it is a life saver!

Goodluck!

JT

 

[beth]

1) By damping down the active inflammation it should allow the tissues to heal, and I guess the GI is thinking there's an outside chance they might heal into a better state.

2) he's allowing your general health to improve before operating.

3) by delaying surgery he's buying you time before the surgery site itself needs revision.

 

[dreamintwilight]

I've been diagnosed for almost 2 years now. When I was first diagnosed my condition was considered moderate to severe and my CT scans showed severe inflammation in my ileum. The amount of space to let things pass through was about the size of a pea!! I was told I had tons of scar tissue, but nothing visually confirmed that with the colonoscopy because my inflammation was too far in the ileum for the scope to see. We had only the scans to go by.

I've been on Humira now for a year a 7 months and my inflammation how downgraded to mild and I don't have anymore narrowing. So, there may be a chance your doc is hoping the Humira will take some of that inflammation away like others have said.

Hope it works for you!

 

[tammigurl]

Thanks everyone! It's been just over a month since my first hospital stay (with this flare) and that's when I started Imuran and Prednisone. And I am basically in the same place as I was then. The inflammation hasn't gone down, pain is still there etc etc. My GI has done her best to get me on the Humira ASAP so I am hoping that it does the job!
It's really great to hear of other people's experiences on Humira. It makes the thought of the side effects less scary!!
Thanks again everyone!
Hugs,
Tammi