A post-operative ileus is not a true obstruction of the intestines but rather a temporary side effect of surgery involving the abdomen. Ileus results when there is failure of the peristalsis of the intestines. Peristalsis is the synchronized contractions of the smooth muscles of the gut that result in forward propulsion of gut contents. Various factors are attributed to causing post-operative ileus. Manual handling of the gut during surgery, medications used during the surgery, inflammation and changes in electrolytes are some of the known causes. Part of the recovery process of a surgical ileus may include mild abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, inability to pass flatus and open bowels, nausea and vomiting. Surgical ileus slows the rate of recovery of the surgery performed. This is because there is delay in introduction of enteral feeds (food) and it also prolongs the patient?s hospital stay. There is no specific timeline that indicates when the ileus will resolve. Recovery time differs in individual patients. If it develops, patient is restricted from having any feeds orally. The return of bowel sounds, ability to pass flatus and open bowels marks resolution of the ileus.

Surgical Concerns

The following instructions are essential to a safe experience and good outcome. If you are unable to comply with these instructions, you must notify our office as soon as possible. As a result, your surgery may have to be postponed or delayed, at the judgment of Dr. Belsley. This is essential to your health and safety. Stress and anxiety over life’s daily events and even your planned surgery can affect you. While some anxiety is common, any serious stress or distress over the thought of surgery is something you must discuss with our office. We are here to support you and answer all of your questions. We want your decision to be one made with confidence.

When to Call

Surgery is stressful not only psychologically but also physiologically. There are a number of normal, well-defined stress responses that occur after surgery. These stress responses cause alterations in your metabolic and physiological processes and induce changes in your inflammatory and hormonal responses.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery

The Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

There is no doubt that surgery has changed humankind. Surgical treatments allow us to live longer, healthier lives. However, surgery is also a trauma to the body. It causes an inflammatory immune reaction as the body reacts to this trauma. Small immune reactions are fine, even healthy.

Recovery and Life at Home after Bariatric Surgery

Recovery after bariatric surgery takes time and patience. The diet is strict. You may experience discomfort and pain as your body heals. The length of time to return to normal activities can vary from patient to patient. Some patients are able to return to work within a few weeks and see weight loss soon after surgery. For others, a couple of months go by before they experience noticeable weight loss. From lifestyle changes to health transformations that change lives, life after surgery is full of both successes and challenges.