The topic at hand is about the slow recovery process after undergoing abdominoperineal resection (APR) surgery, often referred to as "Barbie-butt" surgery. This involves ongoing issues such as drainage, tenderness, and stinging during urination. Here are some helpful tips and insights to aid in the healing process and manage discomfort:
1. Increase healing nutrients:
- Ensure you are getting enough protein daily, as it helps with tissue repair. Consider incorporating high-protein foods or supplements like meats, fish, smoothies, Ensure, and Boost into your diet.
2. Warm Epsom-salt soaks:
- Taking 20-minute baths twice a day in very warm water with Epsom salts can significantly reduce pain, drainage, and odor, and help the wound close faster.
3. Gentle skin care around the stoma or wounds:
- Clean the area with mild soap and water, dry it thoroughly, and remove any old adhesive with dedicated pads or wipes before reapplying products.
- Taking daily showers without your pouch and then changing to a fresh wafer can keep the skin around the stoma healthy. Any whitish skin usually clears up in a day or two with this routine.
4. Layered barrier products for appliance security and skin protection:
- Use a combination of ostomy barrier powder, barrier spray, and barrier paste (allowing the paste to dry before applying the wafer) to prevent leaks and protect the skin.
5. Pain relief for urinary burning:
- Consult your physician about using Phenazopyridine HCI, a non-narcotic urinary analgesic that can help mask the stinging sensation. It is typically used three times a day and tapered as symptoms improve, with no reported systemic side effects.
6. Supportive supplements and homeopathic approaches:
- Some individuals find relief by taking Aloe Vera orally to minimize hernia issues.
- The "Cat Claw" herb has been used long-term by some for controlling diverticulitis.
7. General healing mindset:
- Stay as active as you can, maintain a positive outlook, and be patient, as perineal wounds often take longer to heal than abdominal incisions.
See full discusison