Consulting a surgeon about partial SBO...

Posted by marciakeren @marciakeren, Jun 1, 2023

After 30 years of on and off partial SBO problems, from discomfort to hospitalization, I have been encouraged to consult a surgeon, which I am doing in a couple of weeks.

I am putting together a list of questions to ask... and would really appreciate any suggestions from this very helpful group. So far, I am at:

1. Is surgery a realistic option for my condition?
2. If so, what are the plusses and minuses?
3. And, if so, how many times have you performed this surgery, and what is the success rate?
4. Are there other options for managing the condition?

I am skeptical that surgery is the answer ... but I think I owe it to myself (and my family) to find out.

Please let me know what I am forgetting to ask!

Thank you so much

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shaleenv | @shaleenv | 4 days ago

What are the odds of continued SBO due to adhesions from this procedure.

judithclark | @judithclark | 3 days ago

Questions are good. Surgery does help for a while, but adhesions do come back. Surgery comes with diminishing returns. I am afraid you are stuck with adhesions for life.

shaleenv | @shaleenv | 2 days ago

Some other questions I asked my surgeon were what is the length of time the surgery takes, his answer was 1 to 2 hours even with extensive adhesions, that is also due to mine would be open surgery not laparoscopic.
He told me the success rate is 80-85% but that yes continued adhesions can happen.
I also asked about option in what hospital it happens at, even if our of area.