Seton - What to expect?

[CrohnsNYC]

I am having a seton placed tomorrow and was just wondering from others that have had one, what should I expect? I am a little nervous, but mostly because I have historically done terribly with any type of anesthesia. Any experiences, thoughts, or encouragement are very much appreciated. Thanks!

Beth

Happy New Year!

 

[Mejay07]

Hello,
I currently have my second seton in place. Do you know what type it is?
The first one I had was a rubber band type and I barely felt it, this time they used a silk thread seton, and I don't feel it but this one is much easier to 'accidently' snag when you are cleaning and be careful because it can hurt if you pull on them.

As for the procedure, it is a pretty short procedure, and fairly easy recovery. do you also have an abscess you are having drained?
The couple weeks after you may have drainage, I constantly had to go to the bathroom just to 'clean up', baby wipes, or flushable wipes are great, you can buy a travel pack to keep in your purse.

I wish you luck with the anesthesia, the first time they put me completely out (but that was a semi-emergency situation) and i was knocked out all day. But the second time they just used what they called Sedation, and i didn't feel or remember a thing but I was up right after and able to function that day.

Good Luck and Let us know how it went.

 

[CDDad]

Like Jayme said, it's a big difference if you are getting a cutting (rubber band type), or drainage seton. I have only had the drainage type (2 of them at same time).

Mine ended up being resolved by a Proctocolectomy, so I don't know how it would have turned out long term. I only had them about 3 months.

The purpose of the drainage seton is just that, to let the fistula drain and prevent a painful abscess from forming.

The strings are looped loosely throught the fistula and through the anus and tied in a knot. Very easy to snag and pull when wiping and cleaning. Yes, you will probably want to hit the roof when you pull one. If the knot ends up in an uncomfortable place, I found I could gently (keyword gently) tug and reposition it. The seton is just a loop.

For the first few days or week after the procedure, the area will be very sore, but it calms down.

Good luck!