Enemas after major GI surgery

Had major GI surgery 4 months ago. The ascending colon, cecum and the last 5 feet of small bowel were removed because of Crohn's disease involvement. A large fistula was also removed, along with lots of thickened mesentary. Recovery has been smooth and quick, thanks to a top shelf surgeon, a great hospital and good genes from mom & dad. I was figuring on waiting six months before resuming enema play. At that point, everything should be good or better than new. Prior to surgery, after being fully cleaned out, I could take 4 quarts (sometimes). Three quarts has never been a problem for me. I would start out with a two quart mild soapsuds enema, then work my way up to larger volumes. Occasionally, I would use a 30" colon tube, and with my wifes help, cold get it fully inserted. I'm now missing about 20% of the large intestine. Also gone is the Ileocecal valve at the junction of the large & small bowel.

If you've had GI surgery, what's you're experience? Would appreciate if switchable Sue would chime in on this. All other opinions are very welcome!

Thanks,

Vapor

Hello vapor, I would caution you to be very, very careful if you begin using enemas again. Please listen to switchable and the other trained individuals on this site. DO NOT try to go back to your previous volume and the colon tube is out of the question. Because you do not have an illeocecal valve you are subject to bringing high concentrations of colonic bacteria into the small bowel where they do not belong and can create havoc for you and your bowel.

Frankly, I would have to consider giving up enemas for fun and sexual stimulation entirely. Your life is worth more to you than a few enema games.

Vapor: I lost my entire sigmoid due to cancer. I stayed away from any irrigation for over a year post-op. After my surgeon felt it was safe enough to do a rigid-sig. on me, I began irrigating again, very carefully. Since then, two to 2 & one-half quarts is about all I can get in. My max. volume used to be lots more, but I now have 20% less colon to fill. Please be careful.

Jim

As reluctant as you might be to do so, this might be the time to "come clean" with your health care provider and ask him what the best course of action would be.

Excellent Idea Ladydocisin. I've read many of your posts and as usual your ideas are right on target.

Thank you kindly for the compliment!