Re: colonectomy in a paraplegic

Posted By Daniel on January 02, 1999 at 17:10:02:

In Reply to: Re: colonectomy in a paraplegic posted by HFHSM.D.-ym on December 22, 1998 at 22:22:25:






I am a paraplegic T7 and i have had ulcerative for 4 years.
Taking prednisone and asacol. Because of persistent incontinence problems
i am now considering having a colonostomy.
I would like to know if being a paraplegic and taking corticoseroid will put me
at greater risk. assuming no complication how can i expect the minimum recovery
time after surgery will be /
anyone out there who is a paraplegic and suffer from UC or had to have
a colonectomy ? thanks
Dear Daniel,
In patients with ulcerative colitis who are refractory to medical therapy (steroids, aminosalicylates etc.) total proctocolectomy with ileostomy can be curative. I do not think that being a paraplegic puts you at greater surgical risk. Your overall general medical health and presence of comorbid illnesses are more important in determining higher risk for surgery. Some patients on chronic prednisone have delayed wound healing. Most patients after surgery need about 6 weeks to fully recuperate from the operation. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Szilagy, one of our expert Colorectal Surgeons.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: ulcerative colitis, colectomy, paraplegic
Dear Dr., thank you for your encourageing comments. I have another question, which is whether the new procedure
of colon surgery by laparoscopy would be appropriate for my case. In particular it may help with the
healing. However, could the rectum be removed by this technique ?