Has anyone developed bowel adhesions following pelvic surgery that has
resulted in severe, chronic constipation? If so, I would like your
input. I am a 36-year old female and had a laporoscopy for fertility
about a year ago. I previously had a laporoscopy (for mild
endometriosis) in 1995 with a quick recovery and very mild adhesions. No
serious problems. My recent surgery was supposed to be a simple
procedure but the doctor did a laproscopic myomectomy in the process
(removal of a uterine fiboid). The surgery took 3 hours and much of the
work was done on the lower left side of the uterus. An adhesion barrier
was placed where the fibroid was removed to make sure that the uterus
did not adhere to the back of the bowel (not sure if this worked). About
6 weeks after surgery, I developed constipation that has progressively
gotten worse over the past year (particularly in the area of the sigmoid
colon). Things seem to be getting backed up in this area which produces
distension and a lot of pain. Have tried numerous meds for constipation
including Zelnorm, Miralax, Lactulose and Senekot. Senekot worked but
overstimulated the bowel so I had to go off. Now trying a combination
of fiber,low dose milk of magnesia and Miralax in the hopes of
regulating things. Have had numerous GI tests to determine the problem:
regular x-ray, upper GI, small bowel series, lower GI, colonoscopy, CAT
scan, etc. All were normal except regular x-ray showed that things were
backing up in the sigmoid colon. GI specialist thinks I may have scar
tissue but won't recommend surgery unless there is a blockage. Does
this sound like adhesions? I have noticed a pulling feeling after BMs
and high fiber seems to increase the distension and pain (unlike before
surgery). Am having a hard time coming to terms with the fact that I
may have to take laxatives for the rest of my life and this cannot be
fixed. Any recommendations?