Longer post than I expected... sorry!
I'm 24, no children or pregnancies and have had bowel problems for several years... (since mid teens).
I was finally diagnosed with solitary rectal ulcer about 7 years ago and a possible rectocele about 4 years after that. .Having tried all types of laxatives, medication for IBS, changing diet and biofeedback - I still get lots of problems.
When I last saw my consultant (a rectal sugeon) he asked how things were going and my only answer for him was that it's not much better, but not much worse either. I've just come to realise this is 'me'. At this I found myself bursting into tears!
He then told me that an alternative surgery option is possible which would help BOTH these conditions. A laproscopic ventral rectopexy.
I was relieved when he told me, said yes straight away and was happy that something could be done. I then started to think that I hadn't quite asked all the questions I needed to and made an appointment to go back. I was reassured, and agreed again.
It's 3 weeks until the surgery date and I'm feeling really unsure again now. I think that the main reason for this is that I'm so used to feeling the way I do - that I've forgotten what it's like to be 'normal' (and then this makes me wonder whether surgery is going to make things go 'normal' anyway.)
The surgeon mentioned there's a small risk of nerve damage- and I think this has also got me overly worried that if anything were to go wrong I might be worse off than I am now. I know that there's risks and I'm normally fairly level headed. . but I just do not want any other problems.
Searching this surgery has only come up with negative accounts - although the surgeon couldn't recommend it highly enough. I just wanted to ask if there is anyone else who has had this done.. and for any good or bad accounts...
It's getting so close now. The surgeon said that it is up to me if I have it, but all other treatments have been exhausted and there is nothing else on offer should this not work. I can sort of live it not working, I just don't want it getting any worse.
Any further insights and experiences would be VERY welcome. The more positive, the better!!
Thank you so much in advance.