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After Ileocolectomy/Cholecystectomy, What's Normal?


Wed, March 21, 2012 5:44 PM

I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease about eight years ago and had my first surgery about a week ago. It was a laparoscopic ileocolectomy and cholecystectomy - about 18 inches of my small bowel was resected.

I'm on a low-fat/low-fiber diet - I was on a clear liquid diet for about three months prior to surgery - but I'm still having diarrhea.

Is that normal?

What have your experiences been following this type of surgery?

Thanks!

Tom

FPO tcoop193
Joined Feb 23, 2012

Sun, March 25, 2012 5:00 PM

 Reply posted for tcoop193.

it depends on how much of your colon is still intact. the colon absorbs water making stools solid. if you don't have much of your colon then your stools will be loose. you can try immodium or maybe a fiber supplement or a high fiber diet.

FPO walkera6
Joined May 17, 2011

Sat, March 24, 2012 10:12 AM

 Reply posted for tcoop193.

It's going to take a while for your system to get back to normal.  After my surgery, I would say it was a month and a half to two.  You just have to be patient and take things slow. For me, I thought the surgery would "fix" it all and I would be back to normal in no time. Not true!  Things will get better with time.
 

Christy

FPO ktchrgss
Joined Oct 15, 2009

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