Sigmoid colon resection: What to expect for recovery?

Best of luck to you!!!

The hernias were from having so many open abdominal surgeries in a short time. It weakened the abdominal wall. My second surgery required a wound vac and therefore, the wound wasn’t sutured outside. My third surgery was laparoscopic but I developed a fistula. My fourth surgery was open as well and the umbilical hernia was most noticeable. I also ended up having diastasis recti as well as the umbilical hernia and two others. I just had surgery in June to repair them all and they repaired everything including the muscle separation. It is called component separation surgery. I had a few complications, including discovering I’m now allergic to contrast, but am back to running and barre classes

I had an emergency open colon resection early September 2021 due to a twisted colon. They removed 18". I had been experiencing on and off extreme pain for a while. I am 70. Spent 11 days in the hospital. I was back to playing pickleball 5 weeks after going home. Still taking ducolax and miralax daily, but otherwise doing very well. I too have about a 6" vertical scar.

That is great to hear you have recovered relatively well. I bet pickle ball helps you as well. We are looking into that as well.

15 years ago I had a so-called “Dukes B” colon resection for a cancerous polyp which protruded partially through the colon wall but did not reach the nearby lymph nodes.
Post surgery radiation following this and a subsequent radical prostate surgery were deliberately delayed 5 years so as not to inflame a previously long existing hemorrhoidal pain or irritation condition. Unfortunately, a 5 year delay only postponed that daily discomfort from which I still suffer daily. Earlier hemorrhoidal removal surgery might have been a good idea and long term fix, but I am now 86 and resist all and any elective surgery. Consult your doctor if this condition applies to you.

Had this surgery 4 weeks ago for recurring diverticulitis. Lots of gas and incision pain. One of my small incision from laproscopic doesn’t want to heal. Pain down left side when urinating and having a bowel movement. As well I go frequently, stools are formed but I struggle to pass them. They are soft. Urinating is a weaker stream and some pain. Rectum has a vague pain. How long does it take to feel better. I’m 69, some days I regret the surgical decision.

Hi @vjs I’m so sorry to hear that surgery is not healing as hoped. Some of the symptoms you’re describing may be expected. Four weeks is not a very long time for recovery, but it sounds like some of your symptoms may need medical attention. I might suggest calling your surgeon’s office to see if you need to be seen sooner.

Hi@colleenyoung. I am waiting for a call this week from the surgeon. The punch hole is healing now, it’s just the inner healing now. I think I’m impatient as I thought I’d be through the pain and discomfort. But I u derstand that some people take longer than others. I’ve never had a temp, incisions all are healed nicely outside. Crossing fingers. Thx for your reply.

It's hard to be a patient patient, especially with recovery. Be kind to yourself. Your body has been through a lot.

Are you able to connect me with others who have had left colon resection due to diverticulitis? It would help to know how others fared. Thanks. Vjs