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Adhesions and Laparoscopic surgery

Hi! I've had a J-Pouch for about 27 years now (hooked it up at 8 years old, now 35) and I've had issues with obstructions since I was little. To me, they seem to be related to certain foods I eat, as I don't usually get them if I'm extra careful with what I eat and don't ever overeat. But no matter how hard I try, I'll usually get one at least 3-4 times a year.

My GI doctor and surgeon don't seem to think the obstructions are related to foods. They think it's adhesions that were created from the surgeries that I've have had. This year, I had 2 bad ones that lasted about 12-13 hours and included quite a bit of vomiting and had to head to the ER. After getting an IV and pain medication, it passed. However, I have had some in the past that needed the NG tube, which I despise! But haven't had one of those for like 12 years.

So basically, nobody has been able to pinpoint what to do about the adhesions over the years, except that they are adhesions most likely. So I've just been doing my best to get by.

This year, I had an MR enterography and just had a flexible scope to check for Crohn's and it didn't indicate any. Also, no narrowing or strictures. So everybody is pretty sure it's adhesions.

Surgeon says he could do Laparoscopic surgery and try to see if there are any adhesions or bands and cut them, but can't guarantee it. He says it's up to me. Question is, has anyone had this Laparoscopic surgery on here? Is it worth trying this or am I better off just continuing on and dealing with the partial obstructions when I get them? Diet seems to be restricted with these adhesions, hardly any fruits or vegetables. No high fiber, no potatoes. These things seem to cause a blockage. It's been hard being on a limited diet all these years but it sounds like a lot of people with pouches have this.

I don't like these obstructions, they make me sore for like 3 days and it hinders my everyday routine if I get one. But, I'm getting the impression that the Laparoscopic surgery is kind of a gamble. Anyone know if it's much of a recovery period? Are you back to normal in a few days or does it take longer? Any advice is appreciated! Thanks!

 

 

 

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