Removing endo from rectum - do I need a bowel prep before surgery?

[Clementine79]

Dear all, my diagnostic lap notes say my uterosacral ligament is puckered to my rectum from endo. Also have endo in other areas. I'm having treatment surgery soon with a different surgeon. I asked my surgeon if I need to do a bowel prep before surgery and he said no, but everything I am reading seems to indicate yes. Does anyone have experience of this? I'm wondering if I need to double check with him in case he missed that it's on my rectum? I don't want to wake up and have him say I need another surgery! Thanks for reading.

[Chels78]

Hi Hun,

I had 2 large areas removed from my bowel 2 years ago, and I didn't have to have one. It all depends on the circumstances really, so what one person had done, will be different to what you have done. Your consultant is the expert so he'll know what needs to be done, so don't panic. Good luck and take care xx

xxx

[plip]

Hi,

A lot of my endo was around my bowel so I have had to have a bowel prep before each surgery I had. If there is endo around the bowel and that area then it would sugegst that you need to have a prep. My surgeon has said that if the bowel is empty it's easier to see and get to the areas needed. Maybe get a second opinion if you're concerned - the whole process will be easier and less stressful if you are feeling confident and reassured going into it.

[AlaskaHolly]

Hi,

I think the bowel prep is in your best interest. They are no fun but the idea is not only to have a clean bowel for diagnosis but also to avoid infection risk. If something were to happen during surgery and your bowel was accidentilly perforated, there is higher chance of sepsis if you have anything in your bowel. I always do one and I try to eat as soon as possible the evening before. I keep drinking water until midnight to stay hydrated. You have to decide for yourself but once I understood the reason behind them, I've done one prescribed or not.

I've had six surgeries.

Of course, I'm in the U.S. and we can always bring a lawsuit against our specialist but I do this for me. I would rather avoid further complication.

Good luck!

Holly