What can I expect after a right hemi?

Hi, I had the same op back in February and can honestly say don’t worry I was pain free while in hospital for a week then managed with paracetamol when I got home, I didn’t eat anything for the first few day I only had a nutritional drink called forty sips then when I did eat I had an embarrassing accident on the ward but I know some people were offered adult nappies which i wasn’t offered  till after the incident . When I did go home I was near the toilet for the first few weeks just in case I also kept my diet very plain and boring, the only other thing was I had to sleep on my back slightly propped up which I can honestly say was the worse part of the operation.... anyway good luck and try and to worry too much easier said then done.... love Cathy xxx

Thanks, Cathy.  It’s good to hear from someone who has been through it.   And how are you after the op?  Have things settled down?

Yes, I was also terrified - when I had a left Hemicolectomy 2 years ago, but in my experience, it was far easier than my expectations. I didn't like the immediate after effects of GA, nor the Fentanyl drip (pain relief) for two days, which makes you feel weird & out of it. However, without that, perhaps I would have noticed the pain much more. Thereafter, I was on paracetamol for the next two days, but didn't really need them....& didn't take any after leaving hospital...4 days later.

The day after my Op. It said 'nil foods' above my bed...but I was ravenous.....& so ate immediately, & when I got home, I continued to eat my normal diet....basically, stuff that I like. (I never ever changed my diet.)

I live alone, but a friend shopped for me for the first week. Thereafter, I walked to my local supermarket (5 mins. away,) & life resumed as 'normal' very quickly. One week later, it was my 70th....& I was drinking Champagne with friends.

It hurt a bit passing stools for a week or two...but that eventually wore off.

Obviously, everyones' experience will be different....but I can honestly say...that the physical part of the Op. was far easier than the fears & mental state I endured.

Wishing you all the best

Marianne 26

Yes my bowel is great now. Thanks x

Hello 17ontheinside,

I had the same surgery at the end of March and I had no fear, I could not wait.It was my Lady Macbeth moment of 'Out, out damn spot! There really is nothing to worry about, everything is so well organised and everyone so caring that you are guided through with the utmost care and attention. It all happens so quickly from putting on your gown to being in the pre -op room. I do not even remember  counting backwards when taken into the theatre, but the next thing I was waking up! You will be drowsy for most of the remaining day. The next day you are encouraged to get out of bed and sit in a chair. The staff will make sure that you are pain free and will be attentive to all your needs.

The worst thing for me was actually getting out of bed and you have to find your way of doing it. I found by raising the  back of the bed and leaning against  it I  could then swing my legs around in one action.  I also found it more comfortable to sleep with my bed in a z shape.With my back inclined and my knees pulled towards me and lower legs bent over(if you can imagine that). When I went home I aslo slept with a pillow under my knee. I don't know if that will be any help to you,but it helped me.

After 4-5 weeks I felt brilliant, as long as you follow all the instructions and do not try to rush things and having a daily walk is esential. You will be fine. My bowels have never worked so efficiently! 

I will be thinking of you.

Catsskix

Hi I had an extended rt hemicolectomy and partial gastrectomy in 2019. Had quite a lot of intermittent diarrhoea for first few months,now have occasional urgency otherwise my bowel is normal .Wishing you well xx

Hi. I had an emergency rt hemicolectomy over seven years ago now. Following the surgery my first bowel movement was loose and for some reason it was green. I was told my bm’s would be ‘variable’ from then on and they still are. Not helped by losing my gallbladder not long ago. Usually 3 or 4 before midday which makes morning appts or going anywhere difficult. I have a card which says I have to use a toilet NOW, but haven’t had to use it yet. I developed an incisional hernia which resulted in a mesh repair, but I suspect it was left too long and got bigger and bigger. All my Dr said was ‘keep an eye on it,’ but that didn’t stop it! I had accidents in the ward but the nurses were very understanding. They said I was allowed accidents in this ward. Every blood test has been good and I passed the magic 5 year mark without concern. Keep us informed when you can. This site was a great help and I still chat with people even after 7 1/2 years. You’ll be fine! 

Thanks so much for sharing.  I’m glad to hear that there is a normal life after the op.  I bet that champagne tasted fab!

Thanks so much for sharing.   I’m on day 6 post op, and I am struggling to sleep and getting into a comfy position.   I’ll try the trick with the pillows to see if that helps.  If I can stay off the loo for that long :-( 

thanks so much for sharing.  It’s now 6 days after the op, and 2 days since I got home, and everything has yet to settle down.   I know it will just take time.   I’m glad that part is over, and now on to waiting for the results from my lymph nodes to see if chemo is also needed.