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Ileus and small bowel obstruction...

Iowahawkfans
Iowahawkfans CSN Member Posts: 12
in Colorectal Cancer #1
Have any of you experienced an ileus and what are some of the things your dr. tell you to do about it? did any of you have it develop into an actual obstruction and if so, what did your dr do about it?

My mom had a really bad week last week, having to go to the er twice. They put her on a clear liquid diet but I am wondering what we should look for and what we should do if it happens again.

Thanks!
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  • John23
    John23 CSN Member Posts: 2,121 Member
    #2
    Iowahawkfans -

    99% of intestinal obstructions (after abdominal surgery) are due
    to either hernias or adhesions.

    Ileus is normally due to the intestine's lack of mobility.

    After surgery, the intestines can cease to function properly,
    and remain somewhat dormant for a period of time.

    So there's two possible scenarios for you to consider, and each
    is handled differently!

    If Mom is passing liquid, and is passing it fairly regularly, I would
    suspect an obstruction. Ileus will not usually allow much to pass,
    since the intestine is "sleeping", and does not pump the contents
    through.

    An obstruction may allow liquids, but not solids, to pass.

    They usually can isolate an obstruction using a sonogram and/or X-ray.

    If this has happened twice, and your surgeon knows about it, it
    should have been explained and addressed. If it hasn't been, then
    it's time to find another surgeon; I wouldn't waste time doing so!

    It may too soon after surgery to do more surgery, but the surgeon
    should have told you that.

    If it's an obstruction due to an adhesion, then an all liquid diet
    might help for awhile, but eventually the obstruction will prevent
    anything from passing through, liquids included.

    Ask your surgeon, and if the answers do not seem to make you
    comfortable, find another surgeon and gastro specialist.

    Best wishes,

    John
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