BOWEL SURGERY – DIVERTICULITIS

The bowel or intestine is one of the most essential parts of the digestive system. It helps in the absorption of required minerals and water from the digested food. It also helps in the secretion of the waste products of the body.

WHY IS BOWEL SURGERY REQUIRED?

There are 3 main indications of the bowel surgery.

1. Diverticulitis – formation of small pouches in the walls of the intestine.
2. Intestine blockage – due to adhesion or scar tissue.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome – IBS.
4. Colon cancer – usually in older people

SYMPTOMS OF BOWEL DISEASE:

Symptoms of the bowel disease vary from person to person depending upon the condition they are suffering from. However, the most common symptoms include:

– Constipation or Diarrhea – Most commonly seen in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
– Pain after bowel movements
– Bloody stools.

PRE-OP PREPARATIONS – WHAT TO DO BEFORE OPERATION

Before surgery, mechanical bowel preparation is necessary. Enema or laxatives are used for mechanical bowel preparation for cleaning the intestine. Cleansing of the bowel prior to surgery is very important because it protects you from complications such as infection. After mechanical bowel preparation, a colonoscopy is done to confirm the diagnosis of diverticulitis. Endoscopy also helps in ruling out worrisome conditions such as colon cancer.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

If diverticulitis needs an emergency surgery, the surgeon will have to place a colostomy pouch. The colostomy pouch is the means for the collection of wastes. The pouch stays there until the recovery of the colon. It may take 3 to 6 months after which the pouch is removed.

PROCEDURE

The procedure depends upon the condition of the patient. If a patient needs an emergency surgery, the surgeon will perform the open surgery – an incision is made on the skin to perform the procedure.
However, most of the cases are tackled with laparoscopic surgery. If a patient does not require an emergency surgery, the surgeon performs the procedure with the help of a laparoscope.

POST-OP MEASURES – AFTER THE SURGERY

Bowel surgery requires deep observation and attention. You will have to stay at the hospital for 2 to 5 days. During this period, doctors will make sure that your body is recovering properly and your digestive system can tolerate a liquid diet.

FOLLOW UP

The surgeon will prescribe the medication, tell you about your diet, and would like to see you after 1 to 2 weeks for the follow up.

Keep in mind that long-standing constipation can be due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or blockage. It is a good idea to see your doctor if you suspect IBS or Diverticulitis.