Proctectomy surgery

[sam357]

Hi,

I was diagnosed with crohns 2 1/2 years ago after having rectal abbesses. During this operation I was given a temporary colostomy so that everything could settle down and heal without being used.

Anyway, I have tried various medications but I still keep getting pain from the inflammation and recurring abbesses. The doctors have decided that the only thing left is to perform a proctectomy and remove my colon and rectum.

I now have a date for this (10th July) but would be really grateful to hear from anyone who has been through this kind of surgery. Also, if anyone has any tips for preparing for surgery or recovering that would also be great.

Thanks
Sam

Diagnosed 02/12
Colostomy 02/12
Tried, azathioprine, infliximab, humira, antibiotics

 

[Ali29]

Hi Sam,

I haven't had any surgies for my condition but I wanted to wish you Good Luck and a speedy recovery!!! :ghug:

 

[DJW]

Hi Sam. I've had the surgery.

Pre-op, do your best to stay active. Walk everyday. The healthier you are going in the better.

Post-op. Its a big operation. Give yourself time to heal and adjust. You're not going to be 100% 8 weeks after. Don't worry, that's normal. Make sure you don't let the pain get out of control. It will slow healing.

Finally, take it a day at a time.

One thing I can say...scopes are sooo easy with an ostomy. I don't even drink prep anymore.

 

[Susan2]

Hi Sam.

I had part of my small intestine, all my colon and rectum removed and a permanent ileostomy installed.

I agree with Dave - get yourself as fit as possible before the op and leave yourself time to recover. I needed to learn patience as I had a long recovery period; organise things to keep yourself occupied but also sleep whenever you feel the need - it helps your body to recover.

You have an advantage in that you have experience with a stoma bag, so that won't be as daunting as it is to new ostomates, who have to deal with that as well as recovering from the operation.

Stay in touch and let us know how things go. :ghug:

 

[sam357]

Hi,

Thanks for your comments. I try to be active but because of the setons and pain I currently have it makes most exercise and lots of walking hard. I have been taking Yakult drinks everyday and vitamins in an attempt to help..

How long were you both in hospital? And how long before you were able to sit down properly and go back to work?

My surgeon told me that I would have a month off of work but from some of the posts on here I can't see how that can be true. I have an office job so will need to sit for 8 hrs a day..

 

[DJW]

Hi. Typically (for me) 7-10 days. Mine was done as emergency surgery so recovery time can vary. You may be good in a month (no more pain) but fatigue could be an issue.

Having already got the ileostomy means you might not have the psychological side effects of the surgery.

Keep your doctor posted on how you feel. Again, don't be discouraged if fatigue is pretty high after.

Keep us posted.

 

[sam357]

Hi Dave, I really hope it's not longer than a month.. Crohns has been controlling my life for the last couple of years and it would be so nice to have a normal life again.

How have you found it since having the operation?

 

[DJW]

I got my life back. I don't play ruby anymore. I don't swim in salt water because it peels the wafer off. Everything else I enjoy iI do (ice hockey, softball, cycling, golf, etc.). It also enabled me to complete post secondary education. I wouldn't go back.