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Anyone had a gastrograffin? My pouchoscopy showed possible angulation and folding that could be preventing me from fully emptying. I just got prep instructions for a gastrograffin that seem excessive for someone with a pouch and is probably for someone with a colon. I called to double check and was told the instructions were verified and to follow them. Here’s what I’m supposed to buy:

  One (1) 10-oz bottle of liquid magnesium citrate laxative

Four (4) 5mg bisacodyl USP tablets
One (1) 10mg bisacodyl USP suppository

________________

Does that sound excessive?

Thanks

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If a "simple" pelvic x ray with contrast fails to reveal a suspected angulation, torsion, intussusception, or other mechanical problem, I suspect you may be treated to the multiple pleasures of a "dynamic defocography." As the name implies, after prep, you get your pouch filled with a barium paste with an appliance like one caulks their bathtub with, then sits on a commode trying to empty their pouch while being observed via fluoroscope.  To my knowledge, this often helps nail down with a definitive diagnosis.

I've had the gastrograffin and am pretty sure I did not do the mag citrate nightmare.  But, it was a long time ago so I can't be sure.  I have definitely done defocography more recently without all that prep.   (I don't think they always use gastrograffin).  I did it at CCF and since they are so experienced with j-pouches there, they often do their tests/procedures in less invasive ways than elsewhere.

Well, the gastrograffin test was negative for pouch mechanical malfunction. My GI called to tell me personally. He now wants me to do another manometry test saying it may still be a pelvic floor issue. I had a manometry test at CC 4 months after take down because I was having trouble emptying with high frequency. The results of that test lead to 4 months of pelvic floor physical therapy back home. I learned a lot through biofeedback but certainly don’t want to go through all that again. I don’t know what to think. Maybe this is as good as it gets for me.

Hi -- I've also had abnormal manometry findings and have done a fair amount of pelvic floor PT at home.  Going to see Dr. Shen in NY in April and may return to do biofeedback and PT with their therapists who likely know more than the therapists here.  It's really a drag -- sounds like our problems are fairly similar.  I hope you find a solution.

 

Best,

Debbie

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