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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Post-cholecystectomy Pain
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Post-cholecystectomy Pain
by SadSallie, Aug 07, 2006 12:00AM
In May, I started having fullness under my right rib cage and scapular pain on the right side. My doctor sent me for a HIDA scan. My ejection fraction was 8% - so in early July I had a laproscopic cholecystectomy. The surgery went well, but I have continued to have the scapular pain with a cramping like pain that extends around my right side to the front right below the incision. When I went for my two week checkup, the surgeon said it might still be a result of the gas and flushing they did in my abdomen. He didn't have any suggestions. He also added that the pathology report on my gallbladder showed that it was normal. This was devastating to me for I feel that I have just been through an unnecessary surgery without really getting relief for my symptoms.
I've been taking Percocet for the pain which is almost always there, but gets much worse after I eat - really anything - not just fatty foods.
Could there be another cause for this pain?
I was not referred to a gastroenterologist prior to surgery - would this be wise now?
Lastly, should I see a dietitian to see if I need to eat special foods after this cholecystectomy?
Thanks so much for your help.
Signed "Ready for Help"
I've been taking Percocet for the pain which is almost always there, but gets much worse after I eat - really anything - not just fatty foods.
Could there be another cause for this pain?
I was not referred to a gastroenterologist prior to surgery - would this be wise now?
Lastly, should I see a dietitian to see if I need to eat special foods after this cholecystectomy?
Thanks so much for your help.
Signed "Ready for Help"
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Aug 08, 2006 12:00AM
, Aug 08, 2006 12:00AM
Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction can present with gallbladder-like pain, especially in those after cholecystectomy. An ERCP with Sphincter of Oddi manometry can be considered to evaluate for this.
Checking various upper GI disorders, like GERD, an ulcer, or inflammation of the upper digestive tract, can be considered with an upper endoscopy.
If the tests remain negative, looking for non-GI disease can be considered. A chest CT scan can be considered to evaluate for pulmonary of musculoskeletal possibilities.
A referral to a GI physician or dietician can be helpful to discuss dietary changes or other GI causes.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Checking various upper GI disorders, like GERD, an ulcer, or inflammation of the upper digestive tract, can be considered with an upper endoscopy.
If the tests remain negative, looking for non-GI disease can be considered. A chest CT scan can be considered to evaluate for pulmonary of musculoskeletal possibilities.
A referral to a GI physician or dietician can be helpful to discuss dietary changes or other GI causes.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Member Comments
by women_2020, Aug 14, 2006 12:00AM
Hello I am going through the same thing as you with the GB removal and pain following. Theres a ton of info on a group on yahoo about sphincter of oddi, I am also there. If you have any questions you can email if you like or join this group. My email there is women_2020***@****. I have been going through all this sicne last April when I had my surgery, now I am taking a bunch of pills to help relieve the pain. I have did tons of research on SOD and why people get it and what can be done. If you what email with any questions. Shannon/MI
