Bowell prolapse

[lastofthemohicans]

I would like some advice about a prolapsed bowell. I have been advised by my Doctor that I could have keyhole surgery to correct it. Has anyone else had this surgery and if so what was their experience.?

[SueCats]

I had keyhole surgery (Laparoscopic Ventral Rectropexy) to repair a rectal prolapse 13 years ago. I was 58. I had several small cuts made in my tummy for the instruments. It took about 2 - 2.5 hours. The normal stay in hospital was 1 - 2 nights, but I stayed in for 3, as I was still dizzy and I lived alone. The operation was successful. No heavy lifting or heavy exercise for 6 weeks. Walking is recommended. After 6 weeks I started gentle cycling and other exercise. Any questions, please ask.

[lastofthemohicans in reply to SueCats]

Thanks for your reply. Was the operation a success? How long did it take you to recover?

[SueCats in reply to lastofthemohicans]

Yes, the operation was a success. The standard recovery time for most operations or breakages is 6 weeks. I took it very easy for the first few weeks. No heavy lifting or hard exercise. I started by walking (very much recommended) round my Close, progressing to neighbouring streets, and up to 2 or 3 miles. After 6 weeks I started doing more. I cycle, so I built up to 40 - 60 miles a day over several weeks and returned to yoga and Pilates. There was discomfort, but quite manageable with pain relief. I didn't need the very strong pain relief which I could have had. I was living alone at the time, and after the first few days, was able to cope fine without any help. I was careful bending, but with caution that was OK. Internet food shopping was in it's infancy then, but I did use this a few times to avoid lifting shopping bags. I think I could drive after a couple of weeks. They said it was OK if I could do an emergency stop. I was off work for 10 - 14 days (I can't remember exactly how long now). I did find that sitting at a desk for periods of time became a bit uncomfortable over my stomach, and had to get up and move around to stretch a bit. No rear end discomfort though, as the work is internal.

The one thing they didn't warn me about, or if they did , I forgot, was that after the operation your stomach is quite bloated. I couldn't fit into the clothes I had and had to "phone a friend" to bring me a loose fitting garment to wear home from the hospital.

[lastofthemohicans]

Thanks your experience is helpful. I do feel a bit fearful about the operation. We’re the incisions very small?

[SueCats in reply to lastofthemohicans]

Tiny. I had 4. They were glued afterwards, no stitches. I could shower, but not have a hot bath. I guess sitting in a hot bath might melt the glue.

[lastofthemohicans in reply to SueCats]

That is very helpful. Thank you.