I had my reversal and pouch creation on May 8th.

However, ever since I have been discharged, I have not been able to properly pass gass. I can't do it squating or in the toilet. THe only position that provides relief is when I lie down on my right side.

I can't evacuate properly either and the only way to avoid an obstruction is by not eating.

After I had my stricture dilated, I thought the problem was solved. however, the problem remains. I am beginning to think that this is a structural issue with the pouch . will this resolve on its own? how long does that usually take? It's really annoying walking around bloating.

are there any tests that definitively conclude that it's a kink? or a structural issue? what is the resolution?

thanks

There is a test that can be done to see the shape of the pouch, it is called a pouchogram. It's an x-ray, and by enema a liquid is instilled in the pouch through the rectum (I believe its a barium product) and the pouch is then visible through a series of x-rays. I'm not sure if this will help you or not....but there are ways to visualize the pouch. Good luck to you!!

The problem with the pouchogram is that while it visualizes the pouch well and you can see leaks and ulcers and the like, it does not show the pouch when the forces of emptying are applied to it. This is why patients with these troublesome problems keep coming up with negative diagnostics.

An abdominal CT may show kinks or strictures caused by adhesions, if they are not obstructed by other loops of bowel.

A defagram could show a pouch that is overstretched and not emptying well, or one that collapses over upon itself when emtying. This is where you empty your pouch of contrast media while being x-rayed.

Jan

Holy smokes...a defagram....I never heard of that. I guess that would definitely be diagnostic.
(Jan..you never cease to amaze me with your knowledge base.)
Blowe, I hope you soon find out what the problem is so then they can start looking for a solution.