Sigmoid colon resection: What to expect for recovery?

I had my surgery in May and I'm starting to feel a bit better going on 4+mths. I still have issues with my bowels and gas but not as bad. Just also started getting my appetite back...feel a whole lot stronger. Don't get me wrong my days ☺️ better then worse. Hang in there and good luck as we all need it ☺️

Thank you for the hugs.

You will start to feel improvement when all the hardware is removed, & the infections clear up. Things will change and one day soon you will realize "hey, I am feeling stronger, today". Everything improves quickly once your body finishes healing from the surgery/setbacks. The first 4 to 6 weeks is difficult. Just listen to the way you feel, your doctors and rest. It is not a race but a gradual process. The doctors have probably told you not to lift anything, pay attention to the no lifting advice.

Hi,
Today my staples were removed but the drain must stay in for at least another week maybe 10 days. It’s ok. I’m still draining quite a bit and I had an abscess, fistula and infection So, that being said, I’ll wait as long as necessary for this drain to be removed. I’ll see my surgeon again in a couple of weeks. Thanks Jodi for all the positive thoughts and vibes. Leslie

Sending positive thoughts that your staples and drains were removed.

I do care, let me know your progress. I have experienced what you are trying to recover from and the suffering as we begin to build on the new normal. It will get better. Please continue to post and you remain in my thoughts.

Thank you so very much. I will let you know how tomorrow goes. I know my staples will be removed however, I don’t think she’ll remove my drain because I’m still draining quite a bit. It’s ok I’m already feeling so much better and I know over the course of the coming weeks and months I’ll get much better. Leslie

Surgeons remove the staples and drain tubes as soon as medically appropriate depending on the patient's condition. Everyone heals differently. I had robotic surgery, and the incisions were closed with dissolving stitches and medical (glue?). Everything improved a lot 2 1/2- & 4-months (much better) post-op. I will be thinking of you on Tuesday and wishing you happy results so you can recover and be more comfortable. This does get better, be patient. Starting to get up, returning to my normal diet and walking helped me a lot. But ask your doctor first.

Hi Jodi,
Thank you so much for responding 😊. I’m using a little Imodium when the BM’s are too frequent and that’s helping tremendously. My staples are coming out on Tuesday. I know I will be more comfortable once that happens. I’m hoping the drain comes out on Tuesday as well but no guarantee on that since it’s still draining quite a bit. Your advice and input is spot on and greatly appreciated. Leslie

8 months and it seems my schedule is off about 12 hours from before and with more frequently. Middle of the night vs daytime. Fatigue continues for a few months so take short naps. The more you walk and move around, even around the house helps. Big hint, stay close to the bathroom because the first urge is to be taken seriously for a while. Try going to the market but for only a couple of items, baby steps. Much of it is timing and resuming your activities.