Gastroenterologist Questions Gastroenterologist

I was recently told I have two GI Fistula’s?

I have a history that includes a 15lb tumor that was surgically removed from my uterus, at the same time my surgeons had to do a complete hysterectomy. ( I do have one ovary) About 15 years later I’ve had two bowel obstructions that had to be surgically repaired, my appendix and gallbladder removed (the surgeon knew I had a hostile abdomen due to severe adhesions but accidentally nicked my bowel), I ended up getting abscesses and had to have two more surgeries that month. I ended up with a wound vac for four months. I then had a partial bowel obstruction, my doctor did not have to do surgery this time. Before I was released we discovered two fistulas, one on each side going from my large bowel to small bowel. Since I’ve been home I’ve been struggling with belly pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a low grade fever and feeling completely exhausted. What are the long term effects of having these fistulas? Will the pain and nausea get better? What can I do to help them get better? What can a doctor do to help?

Female | 50 years old
Complaint duration: 30/09/2021
Medications: Bydurion, metformin, trazedone, latuda, lithium, clonidine, clonazepam
Conditions: Diabetes, hypertension

1 Answer

I am so sorry. You have really had a hard time. Side effects could get better with time, but there is no guarantee. The treatment is surgical with repair of the fistulas. This could also cause more problems with the adhesions you have and the fistulas that are likely causing the current problem. It is possible to operate and remove the sections of bowel where you have fistulas. I recommend getting a second opinion from another GI surgeon and then making a decision.