colon surgery- - excessive gas

[D.L.]

I had about 85% of my large intestine removed about 3 years ago for colonic inertia (a dead colon), and they reattached what was left of it to my small intestine (thus, no bag).  I am able to have bowel movements now, though they are very irregular (vary from frequent diarrhea one day, to constipation the next couple of days, etc.).  Since surgery, I have frequent gas (with bulges in my abdomen moving as the air moves through my intestines)--I must pass gas 100 times a day!  As if that weren't bad enough, the smell is nothing I've ever smelled come out of a human being!  It is extremely rancid, and smells similar to very rotten eggs (a sulfur-like smell).  Can anybody else who's had colon surgery relate to this?  What causes it, and what can be done about it?

[no where to turn to]

what are the thing to look for if you think you may have this?

[eveningstar]

There is this great support group on webmd.com   they are called the colorectal cancer support group  (go to the message boards) and they know about this type of surgery and all the side effects that can happen including what you asked about.  There are some extrememly knowledgable people there who would be happy to advise you on this.