Can a GP do a rectal exam to check for a stricture?

Topics

Savannah

I think it is conceivable that I have a stricture and I learned from these posts that finger dilation is sometimes all that is needed to stretch the narrowing. My question is this: I see my regular GP two weeks before I have a flex sig and rectal exam scheduled with my surgeon. Could my GP do an adequate job of examining my rectum and therapeutically dilating it if it seemed helpful to do so. Not ever having had this done, I don't really know if it requires a colon/rectal specialist (which I would use most of the time anyway) or if a good GP can competently do it too. Then I could get some relief sooner. Thoughts about this would be appreciated.
Thankyou Savannah
Savannah
UC 2005
Total colectomy/temporary ileostomy 2009
Two stage reversal to the j 2010

?

❤️ 0

Replies sorted oldest to newest

Scott FMember

It really depends on the GP's experience. Most won't have a clue.

8/16/1312:27 AM

❤️ 0

jeaneMember

I would not risk this with a GP for the reasons Scott mentioned. I also will no longer allow my gyno to do the dreaded anal finger exam at my annual. I told her no need any more as my surgeon handles this, plus she is petrified to even go there after the surgery us jpouchers go through.

8/16/134:49 AM

❤️ 0

PluotMember

A lot of people say the first dilation hurts like hell... I wouldn't want someone inexperienced to try.

8/16/1310:56 AM

❤️ 0

mgmt10Member

I won't let anyone but my surgeon touch my butt! I had a stricture too and my surgeon took care of me. I wouldn't chance it. Let your surgeon do it.

8/16/131:52 PM

❤️ 0

SavannahMember

Thank you so much everyone. You all said better to have my surgeon do the dilation if needed. This means I may want to have sedation for the exam which is to include a flex sig. I am kind of a soldier but I really don't want to experience any more pain in my anus/intestinal region. Everyone's knowledge, experience and authenticity on this site is so helpful. To those who regularly post and manage the forums a big round of claps and snaps. I have learned more here then anywhere else and the general support is so appreciated. Bless you.
Savannah

8/16/133:48 PM

❤️ 0

Pouch4WfMember

My wife was in the hospital a few weeks ago. An "on-call" colorectal surgeon did an exam and determined that there was no stricture. Our experienced surgeon came in the next day and found an "extreme" stricture during endoscopy. No clue how the first surgeon missed it. I think the anastomosis (outlet) site is far enough in that it can be missed by someone who is really not experienced with the anatomy of the J-Pouch.

8/18/1311:39 PM

❤️ 0

Skip to main content

Topics

Add Reply

Membership Required

Remove From Your Block List

Manage Follow Preferences

Block

Please wait...