Recovery Time after Intestinal Surgery?

[lvfrogs]

Hello Dr.
I had an intestinal resection 5 weeks ago and am recovering ok, except for my bowel movements.  I have had to have help (Miralax, Milk of Magesia) in order to have one.  I tried to eat solid food and that has not set well on my stomach, very nauseous, so I am gone back to drinking Boost, eating soup, soft foods and that sets better on my stomach, but does not produce a bowel movement. Is this normal after surgery and will it just take more time. I also have a hiatel hernia and take Prilosec 20mg/day.  Thank you for any help.

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
Normally the bowel movements resume in a day or two after abdominal surgeries.
In case of intestinal resection, absorption of the nutrients is affected and may result in diarrhea.
Depending on which part of the intestine ( duodenum, jejunum and ileum) is resected, the absorption of nutrients is affected resulting in various symptoms.
Diet modification is usually advised  and it depends on the part of the intestine that has been resected.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[lvfrogs]

I am bumping this up since the doctor asked me a question and so he can see the answer. I hope that is ok.

[lvfrogs]

To the doctor:
It was the upper intestine and it was about a one foot section. Thank you!

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
I would like to know which part of the intestine was removed and how much of it was removed?
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[lvfrogs]

bump

[lvfrogs]

Hello prolapsed,
I am 5 weeks out and still having trouble with my bowels. That is why I submitted this question to the doctor. I would just like to know if it is normal or not.  I too am eating soft foods with occasional regular food but the regular food makes me nauseous.  Hopefully, we will get an answer.

[prolapsed]

i also have had resection 3 weeks ago im eating soft things like mashed potatoes and gravy infact i eat any thing my bowel lets me  but fed up of not eating solid foods  ??? do you know how long it takes for normal bowel function to return  mine at the moment feels collicky its either feels like its emptying too fast or too slow cant make out which  so sorry for you i know how it feels xx