← Return to Surgery - robotic sigmoid colon resection - diverticulitis

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So has anyone developed fistulas after their surgery?

My surgery went well…they were able to complete it robotically and I spent about 4 days in the hospital. That was almost 6 weeks ago.

Since then I’ve had bouts of near constant diarrhea, the feeling like I didn’t completely empty my bowels each time, lots of gas and some nausea. I’m planning to meet with GI doctors I work with and also my surgeon.

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Replies to "So has anyone developed fistulas after their surgery? My surgery went well…they were able to complete..."

No on fistulas. Yes, on feeling like not completely empty, no on nausea.
What has been your diet?

I didn’t develop fistulas but have had quite a bit of diarrhea and the feeling I haven’t emptied my bowels.
I’m also having some days of severe cramping, like gas. I have an appointment with a GI but not for another month. I’m debating calling my surgeon as well because I’m not sure what’s surgery related and what’s not.
I’m also keeping a food journal.

I met with a registered dietitian, you may need a referral from your PCP, but I found it very helpful in returning my gut to a more normal state. About 2 1/2 months post surgery the RD said was ideal to begin this plan. It’s a pretty soft diet, adding in more and more fiber as time goes on, but keeping a journal to determine what your gut can tolerate. I tried brussels sprouts and found out was way way too early to even attempt that vegetable! 🙁 Also, adding psyllium, and my surgeon and GI doctors both told me I could take Imodium as needed. My reasoning was because I do water aerobics three days a week and I have to be able to not experience a messy gut in the pool and that has prevented that from happening. The plan is very detailed such as you can’t chew gum because sugarless gum causes gas, which I didn’t know. Just a thought you might want to try. Neither of my doctors recommended this route but they both applauded the idea. Also, it took me three tries to find an RD who would help me with this, so don’t give up trying to find a qualified RD willing to help you. Hope this may work for you, too.