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Abdominal swelling after Laparotomy
Hi,
I had a laparotomy to remove a fibroid and endometriosis in mid-October. My right ovary had to be removed, but the horrible thing was that two days after surgery, they had to open me up again to treat a small bowel obstruction. So, my recovery took a bit longer than it was supposed to. I was on IV for 10 days. My problem is, it's exactly 8 weeks after surgery now, and I still have considerable amount of stomach swelling. I was told this could be because it was two back to back surgeries. And also the reason is because the fluid around has not been absorbed into the body. My incision is healed pretty well. But the numbness around it still persisits. I've heard that it's quite normal.
My question is, for how long will I have to endure this discomfort due to abdominal swelling?
Also, my bowel movements are normal, but I need to use a stool softener or else the initial stools are hard. I drink a lot of water and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. But this problem seems to persist as well.
Anyone who had similar experiences and anyone who can help?
I had a laparotomy to remove a fibroid and endometriosis in mid-October. My right ovary had to be removed, but the horrible thing was that two days after surgery, they had to open me up again to treat a small bowel obstruction. So, my recovery took a bit longer than it was supposed to. I was on IV for 10 days. My problem is, it's exactly 8 weeks after surgery now, and I still have considerable amount of stomach swelling. I was told this could be because it was two back to back surgeries. And also the reason is because the fluid around has not been absorbed into the body. My incision is healed pretty well. But the numbness around it still persisits. I've heard that it's quite normal.
My question is, for how long will I have to endure this discomfort due to abdominal swelling?
Also, my bowel movements are normal, but I need to use a stool softener or else the initial stools are hard. I drink a lot of water and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. But this problem seems to persist as well.
Anyone who had similar experiences and anyone who can help?
Thank you for your explanations. Do you think the reason for some swelling to still exist (it's the 10th week now) is because I underwent two surgeries that messed around with the intestines? My doctor did tell me that it'd take a long time just because of that fact, but I didn't expect it to be this long.
I don't have any pain - But there are tight/firm areas in the belly area.
I don't have any pain - But there are tight/firm areas in the belly area.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,
It will take close to 4-5 weeks for recovery and for the swelling to subside. Avoid doing any strenuous activity. The numbness could be due to the injury to the superficial nerves. It should get better in a few days. If the pain worsens then any infection or adhesion formation has to be ruled out.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.
It will take close to 4-5 weeks for recovery and for the swelling to subside. Avoid doing any strenuous activity. The numbness could be due to the injury to the superficial nerves. It should get better in a few days. If the pain worsens then any infection or adhesion formation has to be ruled out.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.
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