post subtotal colectomy surgery questions...need ur experiences!

[barbeezee]

Hello all,
I am in the final stages of exams before my subtotal colectomy will be confirmed a scheduled.
I have completed a sitz marker test (failed), small bowel transit test, camera capsule, ct scan, mult blood tests, anorectal neurology exam, colonoscopy, and upper gi exam. Sitz marker showed markers spread out in large intestines. I have to complete the defectory and anorectal manometry exams in the next 2 wks, however surgeon says to prepare myself for surgery.
Here are my questions and concerns:
- open or lapro?
- electrolite issue afterwards?
- how many inches of large intestines should I keep?
- how common is gallbadder an issue?
- how much weight is usually initially lost after surgery?
- when should I expect to be active again/exercise


I'd appreciate any and all experiences, suggestions, and advice. I expect to have surgery in June 2010. Thank you!

[barbeezee]

Thank you, I will take a look and contact him.

[mammo]

I sent you his contact info via PM.

[barbeezee]

Hi mammo, thank you for your post. I have another forum that I started a month ago called : surgery? slow transit colon, chronic constipation, ibs-c. This explains most of my symptoms and what I am currently going through. I have chronic constipation that only seems to move with large amount of laxatives or supplements. Sometimes they, work sometimes the don't but either way, I am uncomfortable everyday. My day consists of getting up, hoping to pass something (due to meds before bed), work, then home to try and get comfortable. I'm exhausted all the time. It is a constant routine to try and have a decent day. Yes, if you can give me your sons info I would appreciate contacting him before the surgery. I look forward to having my life back. Thank you.  

[mammo]

Hi, I have 2 sons and a grandson that had total colectomies.  I would go with the lapro.  less invasive and easier recovery.  As for electrolytes this is only a problem if exercising in the heat so keep yourself well hydrated with water. Gatorade, orange juice and children's Pedialite are good sources of electrolytes to rehydrate as well.  My son had his colon removed at 12, and the only time he has any problems is during flu season.  If he gets a stomach virus, and starts to go from both ends he gets (and you will too) dehydrated easily.  At this time it's not possible to keep yourself hydrated so he goes to the ER for IV hydration.  It only takes a few hours and you're out, but he only has to do this once a year during flu season.  At first you will have a lot of BM's, these can be controlled with Immodium, and get better as your body adjusts.  You will learn what foods make it worse.  My son is a marathoner, ultrathoner, mountain biker, avid hiker which puts him in the middle of nowhere for weeks at a time, and he competes in jujitzu.  So you can see that you can have a very fulfilling life.  He refuses to allow it to even slow him down, so I think attitude is important.  My family members lost maybe 10 pounds give or take a few.  None had any issues with their gallbladder.  Keep as much of your large intestine as possible, talk to your doctor about this.  Would you mind telling us "why" you have to have this surgery?  If you are intersted, I can give you my son's contact information so he can talk to you as well.  I have referred several people to him and he welcomes them, because he understands.  Take care....