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I am writing for my mom, Margie, who could use a lot of support but is not quite ready to join, herself. She was diagnosed with colon cancer two years ago. Dr. Remzis team at the Cleveland clinic removed her colon and she had an ileostomy bag. After about a year, her cancer spread to the liver. Last week she had the tumors removed from her liver, gallbladder removed and finally had her take down procedure of the j pouch also at the Cleveland clinic. After five days she was sent home although she was tender and bloated. The night she went home she threw up 4 times and my dad took her to the ER where they determined she had a blockage and she was sent back to the clinic. At the ER she had an NG tube put in. Initially the NG tube helped with the bloating but now the drainage is dark brown and thick. The Drs are saying she may have c diff and we are waiting to see what tests say. I'm really concerned about the blockage and infection and was wondering if anyone had similar experience to provide comfort? 

 

Thanks 

 

Leah, concerned daughter of Margie. 

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A blockage shortly after surgery is most often just a post-operative ileus, essentially the gut just temporarily going on strike. It's miserable, and mine lasted ten days, but (if that's what's going on with your mom) it's temporary and not in any way a sign of trouble to come. C diff is a different problem, of course. I hope they figure it out soon.

Boy, your mom has really had a lot to deal with over the past year. No doubt her resistance was low after this last set of surgeries. If this is a C. diff infection, it is likely a hospital acquired strain and they will get right on it with powerful antibiotics. Most likely it will be vancomycin, or maybe a combination. As for the obstruction, Scott is probably right that it is most likely an ileus. That just takes time.

Luckily for her, she has a great daughter to be by her side. Liver metastasis is a tough thing to deal with, so she will need your support, as it will be a long journey. I hope you get some good news soon.

Jan

oh boy I'm sorry to hear of the rough road. NG tubes or the hose in the nose is brutal enough as it is. given the additional data that you just shared that she's passing stool it sounds like their suspicion of cDiff would be accurate. I found that the hose in the nose varied from dark bilious type extract to a diluted version of same. she's at an excellent hospital so hopefully they get her well situated and on the road to recovery soon. best wishes and hugs to you, mom and dad.

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