Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around concerns regarding post-surgery symptoms experienced by a person who recently underwent an ileostomy, where the large colon and rectum were removed due to colorectal cancer, and the buttocks area was sewn shut. The primary concerns are persistent pain and bleeding from the buttocks area four weeks post-surgery, despite regular pain medication. The person initiating the discussion is seeking advice on whether these symptoms are normal and how long it might take before relief is experienced.
Advice and Insights from Replies:
1. Urgency of Medical Attention:
- Multiple responses emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical attention due to the ongoing bleeding, suggesting it is not normal to still have bleeding four weeks post-surgery.
- It is recommended to consider getting a professional opinion from another hospital or a different gastroenterologist.
2. Medical Evaluation and Tests:
- A suggestion was made to request a CT scan to better understand the cause of the continued bleeding and pain.
- There is a concern that if the area continues to bleed, it could potentially lead to an infection.
3. Healing and Care Post-Surgery:
- It is noted that surgeries involving the removal of the rectum and closure of the buttocks (referred to colloquially as "Barbie Butt" or "Ken Butt" surgery) can take a significant time to heal.
- Careful attention should be paid when sitting, using the toilet, taking a shower, and transitioning between sitting and lying down positions.
4. Possible Complications:
- There is a possibility that the ongoing bleeding could be from an internal issue such as an abscess, especially if the blood appears to be coming from inside the wound.
- Concerns were raised about the possibility of remaining cancer cells causing continued bleeding, although this is speculative and requires medical investigation.
5. Home Care Suggestions:
- One reply mentioned the benefit of bathing the wound in salt water to aid healing, based on advice possibly given by doctors or nurses.
- Another individual shared their personal post-surgery care routine which included leaving the surgical site partially open for drainage and using Epsom salts baths to prevent the stitches from drying out and reducing discomfort.
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