Anyone else have a Redundant / Tortuous Colon?

Posted by onaquest @onaquest, Nov 7, 2018

Hello. Anyone else out there that has a redundant/ tortured colon? I was diagnosed with this a few years ago. I’m usually ok, but if I get constipated, I get sick for a week or two. Last year my gastroenterologist referred me to a surgeon for urgent surgery to remove some of my colon. The surgeon I ended up seeing (not on the recommended list by my gastro doc due to others not available for a long time) said he believed I could live with the redundant colon if I followed a low FODMAP diet. I tried the diet religiously, scientifically (I’m a scientist), and I found it’s not the food I eat that causes these bouts of constipation. The only item I’ve found that might cause the bouts is coffee every day. An occasional coffee seems fine. What has helped me stay regular in a big way is Benefiber (or any pure wheat dextrose generic) three times per day. Lots of fluid.

My gastro doc was upset with the surgeon and said I’d regret not having the surgery. He fears I will end up in an emergency situation. I have searched the Mayo site and don’t find anything about redundant/ tortured colon. Are any Mayo docs doing research or treat this condition? Anyone else suffer from this too?
Thank you! -Jayne

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I had a colon resection one year ago for recurring diverticulitis . I’m happy to report I feel much better and, other than troublesome gas sometimes, I’m happy I had the surgery.
My son now needs the surgery, he’s in his late forties.
My question is to those who have had a portion of their bowel removed; are you happy with the results of your surgery? I’d like to report the answers to my son.
Wishing everyone a happy colon!

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Prunelax is the only thing I have found that works for me.

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@trishh

Last colonoscopy showed tortuous colon. He said I could never have surgery as it its so twisted.
I am concerned as I will have total hip replacement on 11/8 and scared of constipation from sedation.
For those who gave tortuous colon and constipation, what do your take for bowel movement? I take stool softener and senna, but my doc said try OXY-POWDER cleanse. Anyone try this air have other suggestions? Thanks.

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I have a tortuous colon also and suffered from constipation. I use 1 tbsp of Miralax a day and no more constipation.

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@amenbon

I have a tortuous colon also and suffered from constipation. I use 1 tbsp of Miralax a day and no more constipation.

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You are very lucky! It has become apparent to me that everyone is different and different solutions work on different people. Miralax didn't work well for me but the Prunelax is doing a much better job. Bisacodyl worked but it drained me of strength and the Prunelax is much easier on my body. I can actually walk to the bathroom if I have to go and not run! But it appears that we all have to keep trying different products to see what works best for ourselves and I have found that this site is wonderful for sharing each other's experiences and results. It's been very very helpful to me and better than my own doctors advice. When someone has to go through the experience themselves, there is much more understanding and helpful advice. Best wishes to you.

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@euqcaj

You are very lucky! It has become apparent to me that everyone is different and different solutions work on different people. Miralax didn't work well for me but the Prunelax is doing a much better job. Bisacodyl worked but it drained me of strength and the Prunelax is much easier on my body. I can actually walk to the bathroom if I have to go and not run! But it appears that we all have to keep trying different products to see what works best for ourselves and I have found that this site is wonderful for sharing each other's experiences and results. It's been very very helpful to me and better than my own doctors advice. When someone has to go through the experience themselves, there is much more understanding and helpful advice. Best wishes to you.

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I also have the condition. We eat lots of fruits and vegetables and whole grain foods. That is all I need.

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I have found the only thing that works for me is called Lactulose. It’s a syrup and your doctor has to prescribe. I have tried everything else: Linzess, Miralax, prune juice, dates, colace, over the counter laxatives and many more. Hope this helps.

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I just found out after my last (3) colonoscopy and one bowel resection surgery that I have a torturous colon. My Dr didn't tell me I read it on the test report. One of the things I am wondering if it has any connection to the frequent UTIs I have had.

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@kathyoung

I had a colon resection one year ago for recurring diverticulitis . I’m happy to report I feel much better and, other than troublesome gas sometimes, I’m happy I had the surgery.
My son now needs the surgery, he’s in his late forties.
My question is to those who have had a portion of their bowel removed; are you happy with the results of your surgery? I’d like to report the answers to my son.
Wishing everyone a happy colon!

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I had diverticulitis that was recurring so that was good. But now I am having problems again and just found out about the torturous colon I apparently possess.

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I bounce between diarrhea and constipation. Just found out it is torturous colon.

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@fancydancer

I bounce between diarrhea and constipation. Just found out it is torturous colon.

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I have suffered from constipation for years, a new Gastro Dr. diagnosed me with a tortuous colon. In spite of mesalamine and dosusate sodium, still have constipation and incomplete evacuation, little remainders throughout the day, (the worst part of all this). Anyone have that last issue?

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