Colon Resection for Diverticulitis and Chronic Constipation

Posted by tracy430 @tracy430, Jan 27, 2019

Hi All,

My name is Tracy. I had sigmoid colon resection just about 7 weeks ago for diverticulitis. Before surgery, I could count on one hand the times in my life I needed to take a laxative. Now, I don't really have a choice, as I am suffering from chronic constipation. My surgeon gives me no recommendations, with the exception of more fiber, more water and to be more optimistic that it will improve. I get more depressed by the day, as this is coloring every aspect of my life. My surgeon told me having this surgery would "give me my life back". So far, it's taken all the joy from it. Any input would be appreciated.

Thank you.

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pekoe01 | @pekoe01 | Sep 10 7:51am

I'm new top the group and recovering from my first accute diverticulitis attack with abscess. The interventional radiologist went near my tail bone to drain the abscess from the pelvis. I had two bacteria: e-coli and pseudomonas.

This was two weeks ago and I am having gas cramps in my abdomen, some are sharp. Is this normal?

The surgeon suggests when I recover from this, I should get a resection. I'm 78 and weak from losing so much weight.
My question is if I had it done, could I go to rehab after a 3 day hospital stay and when Medicare runs out, am I able to self pay? I live alone and I won't be able to take pain meds. Dont most doctors suggest to wait until you have four episodes before surgery? Also, how long is recuperation after a resection?

Thank you

ein1234 | @ein1234 | Sep 17 1:16pm

I have experienced the same thing off and on since the surgery, but only occasionally, however, it is really bad when it occurs, and I don’t know why. Now it’s been 2 years after the surgery, and I’m having the same pain today on the left side like I did back then. Do you think it could be diverticulitis again even though I have no sigmoid now?

speedbird | @speedbird | Sep 18 7:23am

ein1234 Always a good idea to discuss your issue with an experienced gi doc. Diverticulitis can reoccur even with sigmoid colon removed but the percentage is very low. Best to have a colonoscopy or ct colongraphy. Keep us informed !

diver126 | @diver126 | Sep 28 10:23am

Have had several diverticulitis episodes and doctor is recommending surgical resection. Need advice please

Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Sep 28 2:55pm

In reply to @diver126 "Have had several diverticulitis episodes and doctor is recommending surgical resection. Need advice please" + (show)

Hello @diver126 and welcome to Mayo Connect. As I have also had diverticulitis, I understand how bothersome it can be. I've asked that this post be moved to another discussion on this same topic.
--Colon Resection for Diverticulitis
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/colon-resection-for-diverticulitis-and-chronic-constipation/
Here you will meet others who have talked about their surgical experiences. How long have you been bothered with diverticulitis? Have any medications or dietary changes offered any relief?

linda82 | @linda82 | Oct 2 11:14am

In reply to @diver126 "Have had several diverticulitis episodes and doctor is recommending surgical resection. Need advice please" + (show)

Get all your facts and do it! It was the best decision for me. I had it done in March.

diver126 | @diver126 | Oct 2 1:56pm

In reply to @linda82 "Get all your facts and do it! It was the best decision for me. I had..." + (show)

That’s great to hear. Do you mind telling me your age, how long you’ve had it and number of episodes you had before your surgery. Thanks!

linda82 | @linda82 | Oct 3 8:17am

In reply to @diver126 "That’s great to hear. Do you mind telling me your age, how long you’ve had it..." + (show)

I have a lot of post on here. (not sure if you can search)
I had scheduled the surgery on my 60th B-day
I could of had it sooner but, did not want to be in hospital during cold and flu season.
I have had issues for years and diverticulitis was noted in colonoscopy around 50 yrs old and then again in 2022.
The episodes were getting more frequent and took a lot of meds and time down to heal.
My visit to the ER last Nov. was the final straw. My Dr's said it does not matter what you eat. It is damaged.
I have had IBS for years and I always say that is a symptom not a diagnosis. LOL
I do not regret it.

diver126 | @diver126 | Oct 3 11:23am

In reply to @linda82 "I have a lot of post on here. (not sure if you can search) I had..." + (show)

Thank you for your candor. I am still on the fence on this and was hoping that watching my diet would take care of it but if that won’t help I will probably go through with surgery if I continue having these episodes. ☹️

catherine1290 | @catherine1290 | Oct 4 7:15am

In reply to @diver126 "Thank you for your candor. I am still on the fence on this and was hoping..." + (show)

Is the recommended surgery going to be performed with laparoscope or open abdominal surgery? That would make a world of difference in making a decision!

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