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Intestinal loop - is surgery required?

S SolominMember
Unfortunately, IBD is rampant in our family. My mother has crohns, I have UC as well as my brother.

My mother was experiencing bad stomach / abdominal pain similar to an obstruction, but she was still able to pass stool.

She always has an immense amount of gas and is on endicort. She refuses to try anything (there have been suggestions on this site) unless it is recommended by an MD. I guess this is an old school of thinking. (Her brother was the same way).

She recently went to emergency because she could no longer tolerate the pain, and the X-ray showed an intestinal loop.

She is scheduled to see the surgeon. I am certain that he is going to recommend surgery.

Does anyone know of treatment where surgery can be avoided? She is not the type of person to seek a second opinion and will follow what the surgeon says. At 70 years old and multiple surgeries with last one for adhesions, I am concerned about her going through surgery again.
She had her gallbladder removed two weeks ago based on what appeared to be a large stone from ultrasound, but it was for nothing as there was no stone at all (guess which hospital in Montreal?). I really think multiple surgeries in such a short time is not good.

I hate to see her in such pain and discomfort. She is not one to complain unless something is really wrong.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Solomin
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C CeeeeCeeeeMember
My one and only bowel obstruction was experienced a couple of months post takedown and was caused by my small intestine looping on itself. Never experienced such pain. My surgeon admitted me to the hospital and placed me on heavy pain killers IV. He waited and watched. Told me he had the OR reserved and for me to be prepared for possible surgery. At Day #4 things improved and I suppose my small intestine untwisted. Was left sore but nothing like the previous pain. Food was reintroduced starting with oral liquids, soft foods and then regular diet. I still can't believe I avoided surgery and thank my surgeon to this day....10 years later! My uneducated guess was that my small intestine wasn't used to all this room and was trying to find itself a home it could live with. No problems since!
Jan DollarJan DollarModerator, RN, retired
With Crohn's, that's just the way it s sometimes. Part of the disease process includes bwel wall thickening and narrowing. Surgery is a last resort,but sometimes necessary.

On another note, have you considered the possibility YOU also may have Crohn's? Itis more likely to be familial than UC, and as you've seen here, it is not too uncommon to start out with a diagnosis of UC, and later find out it is Crohn's. With your upper GI and obstruction symptoms, I think it is worth considering, especially if you are looking into another pouch.

Jan Smiler

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