This topic is about dealing with persistent adhesion pain after colostomy surgery. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form after surgery, and they can cause significant pain and discomfort. The person sharing their experience had a permanent colostomy in 2008 due to complications from ulcerative colitis, and they continue to suffer from disabling pelvic pain due to these adhesions. They are seeking advice and insights from others who might have faced similar challenges. Here are some suggestions and insights shared by others:
1. Pain-control medication regimens that have been helpful for some include:
- Endone (oxycodone) at 20–30 mg per day for managing baseline pain.
- Pregabalin (Lyrica) can provide relief for 4–5 months, though it may lead to weight gain, mood changes, and increased costs.
- Diazepam (Valium) can occasionally help calm abdominal muscle spasms, especially when stress exacerbates the pain.
- A combination used by one person includes Imipramine 25 mg at night, Transtec 35 mg buprenorphine patches, regular paracetamol (2 tablets every 4 hours), and tramadol for breakthrough pain.
2. It is important to work closely with a knowledgeable pain-management or cancer-pain specialist and a supportive general practitioner (GP) to tailor medication plans and monitor for dependence.
3. Regarding surgical options, many doctors caution that "adhesion trimming" is high-risk and may worsen scarring. However, some suggest seeking additional surgical opinions rather than accepting one surgeon’s refusal, as the decision ultimately rests with the patient.
4. Lifestyle and mechanical aids can also help:
- Avoid heavy lifting to reduce the risk of developing large parastomal hernias.
- A TENS machine can provide short-term muscle relaxation, especially around the neck and shoulders, though these units can be expensive.
5. Coping and support strategies include:
- Being prepared for the possibility that each abdominal surgery may increase adhesions, necessitating long-term pain management and possibly disability status.
- Utilizing online resources like adhesions.org for education and peer support regarding adhesion pain.
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