This topic is about a person who has been experiencing severe pain and possible recurrent blockages after having ileostomy surgery. Here’s a breakdown of their situation and some advice that might be helpful:

- The person had ileostomy surgery in mid-March and has since faced two blockages. The first was a partial blockage that resolved after drinking a CT-scan contrast. The second was a full blockage on May 20, which was due to extensive adhesions and required emergency surgery and a 12-day hospital stay.

- Currently, they are dealing with intense abdominal pain whenever they eat or drink, and their output stops unless they lie down and use a strong massager on their abdomen for about 15 minutes. They are unable to tolerate even soft foods like pudding or yogurt and are mostly on liquids.

- They are suffering from severe malnutrition, weakness, and depression, and are struggling to care for their pets as they live alone. They do not have a follow-up surgeon since their original surgeon left the practice, and the emergency surgeon was a generalist.

- They are desperately seeking a competent gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon and are willing to travel anywhere for help.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Treat the current symptoms as an emergency. Many suggest going to an Emergency Room immediately, even calling an ambulance if necessary, to prevent serious complications like perforation and peritonitis. The hospital can then arrange for the right surgical or gastro team.

2. Seek highly qualified colorectal or gastro specialists. Dr. Mark Pello, a colorectal surgeon at Cooper Hospital in Camden/Voorhees, NJ, is recommended for complex ostomy cases. His office phone is 856-325-6565. Dr. Grimaldi in Illinois is also suggested as a resource for referrals closer to New Jersey if traveling to Illinois is not feasible. His phone is 708-481-8883, and his assistant is Lynette.

3. Advocate for yourself and prepare documentation. Research any proposed procedures before agreeing to them. Keep a written record of medications, medical history, prior surgeries, and any special instructions to give to ER staff if you are unable to speak.

4. Consider delaying non-urgent surgery when possible and monitor for spontaneous resolution of partial obstructions, but only under medical supervision.

5. Emotional support is important. Stay connected to knowledgeable communities and mental-health professionals. Living alone can make these challenges harder, so try to enlist help from family or friends when possible.